As the music world prepares to say its final farewell to Ozzy Osbourne, Metallica bassist Robert Trujillo shared a deeply personal tribute to the Prince of Darkness ahead of his funeral in London.
“Sadly, we’re heading back to London today for Ozzy’s funeral,” Trujillo wrote in an emotional statement shared with fans. “Ozzy was the conduit for so many new relationships — both creative collaborations and real, lasting friendships.”
A Legacy That Went Beyond Music
Robert Trujillo, who played bass for Ozzy Osbourne in the 1990s and early 2000s before joining Metallica, reflected on how Ozzy’s influence shaped both his career and personal life.
“Joe Holmes is Lullah’s godfather, and Mike Bordin is Tye’s godfather — both of those connections came directly from my friendship with Ozzy,” Trujillo shared.
He credited Ozzy with giving his band Infectious Grooves their big break back in 1991, when they weren’t even fully formed.
“Because of Oz, Infectious Grooves was able to tour… He made us step up and make it happen.”
He Loved the Funk, the Heaviness, and the Madness
Ozzy’s passion for music — particularly funky, heavy basslines — made him a fierce advocate for Trujillo’s sound.
“He loved the song ‘Therapy,’ which he guest appeared on, and that really kicked it all off for Infectious in the ’90s. He actually demanded we open for him on the Theater of Madness tour.”
In true Ozzy fashion, the message was loud and unapologetic.
“He’d say, ‘I’m your best friend Rob, I f*cking love the bass — the funkier and heavier the better!’”
Honest, Humble, and Unforgettable
Trujillo also touched on Ozzy’s legendary honesty and humor, describing his time touring with Ozzy and Zakk Wylde as “a crazy, awesome rollercoaster.”
“Ozzy was a humble man and sometimes so honest it hurt — but his sense of humor made everything absolutely amazing.”
Reflecting on Ozzy’s final weeks, Trujillo shared how honored he and Metallica felt to have performed during Ozzy’s last major public appearance — the Back to the Beginning concert in Birmingham.
“Lars, James, Kirk, and I got to celebrate with him… to share our music and Sabbath’s music on such a special day. That meant so much to us.”
A Final Goodbye
“Ozzy and Black Sabbath were — and still are — the soundtrack to our lives,” Trujillo said. “Now it’s time to pay our respects, share our love, and support Sharon and the family.”
Trujillo ended his tribute with a message that echoes how millions of fans feel today:
“Ozzy, RIP brother. We love you.”
