Two days ago at the Xfinity Theater in Connecticut, Chris Daughtry delivered a powerful performance of his hit “I’m Coming Home,” but it wasn’t just another concert moment—it became a heartfelt tribute to the late, great Ozzy Osbourne. Before the first note rang out, Daughtry paused to acknowledge the weight of the day.
“This next song… I would not be here in front of you,” he told the crowd. “And, uh, today’s been a heavy day. So, I’d like to dedicate this song right now to the legend, Mr. Ozzy Osbourne.”
With that, he encouraged fans to join in the tribute. “If y’all can get out your phones, lighters, whatever you got that lights up…” he said, as the venue glowed with support for the rock icon.
A Personal Memory of Ozzy
In a separate interview, Daughtry reflected on a cherished moment from early in his career when he met Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne. “It was right before our first album came out,” he recalled. “We were in Vegas… trying to convince all these retailers to buy our record. And I think [Ozzy] was promoting, getting ready to come out with Black Rain.”
They ended up in adjacent dressing rooms, and Daughtry got a chance to meet his hero.
“I don’t remember much about it because I was completely starstruck. And I kind of blacked out. But what I do remember is his generosity and his kindness towards me. And I will never forget that. Ozzy, thank you. You changed all of us forever through your songs and we are forever grateful. We will miss you. The world will miss you.”
The Music World Says Goodbye
News of Ozzy’s passing on Tuesday shook the music world, prompting tributes from artists across all genres. Elton John honored his friend as “a huge trailblazer… a true legend,” and added:
“He was also one of the funniest people I’ve ever met.”
Rod Stewart shared his own farewell:
“Bye, bye Ozzy. I’ll see you up there — later rather than sooner.”
Even the estate of John Lennon posted simply “OZZY” with a black heart on X, while Jimi Hendrix’s official page shared:
“Farewell to the Prince of Darkness.”
Countless heavy metal voices Ozzy inspired, from David Coverdale to Vince Neil, Dee Snider, and Disturbed’s David Draiman—who called Ozzy “my dear teacher”—also chimed in with their gratitude and sadness. KISS legends Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, rap icons Ice-T and Flavor Flav, and even pop artist T-Pain expressed their heartbreak. “Man,,, real heart broken over the passing of OZZY OSBOURNE,” wrote Flavor Flav. T-Pain, who was praised by Osbourne for his 2023 cover of “War Pigs,” posted:
“Heartbroken by the news. I was blessed to be able to cover War Pigs and get your recognition. Ozzy Forever Actor Danny Trejo described Ozzy as “pure light” despite his dark image, saying his heart was “bigger than any stage he graced.” He added:
“Save me a seat backstage up there, carnál.”
Jason Momoa, who hosted Ozzy’s final show earlier this month, also sent “aloha” and “ohana” to Sharon Osbourne—reminding fans that Ozzy’s family extends far beyond blood.
Though the Prince of Darkness is gone, his light continues to burn bright in the hearts of millions.
