When the world lost Ozzy Osbourne on July 22nd, 2025, at the age of 76, it wasn’t just the end of a chapter in rock history. It was the loss of a brother, a mentor, and a legend who touched millions beyond the stage.
For Zakk Wylde, Ozzy’s longtime guitarist and one of his closest companions, the loss was deeply personal.
A Bond Beyond Music
Zakk Wylde joined Ozzy’s band in 1987, and over nearly four decades, their connection evolved from professional to deeply familial. They toured the world, recorded albums, shared countless stages — and formed an unshakable bond.
In a recent interview with Guitar World, Zakk opened up about their final moments together. It was backstage at the Back to the Beginning concert on July 5th — Ozzy’s symbolic final performance.
“The room was packed,” Zakk said. “Fans, media, family — it was chaos. I figured I’d catch up with him later.”
But there would be no “later.”
Ozzy’s Final Message to Zakk Wylde
The last communication Zakk ever received from Ozzy came as a text message — brief, raw, and unforgettable:
“Zakky, sorry, it was like a madhouse back there. I didn’t see you. Thanks for everything.”
No dramatic goodbye. No long letter. Just a few sincere words from one soul to another.
“We were just talking like always,” Zakk said. “Telling each other ‘I love you, buddy.’ Simple. Real. That was our last exchange.”
No Regrets — Just Respect
Though they never had a final hug or face-to-face farewell, Zakk holds no regrets.
“That night is burned into my memory,” he shared. “It was perfect, in its own way. He knew how much I loved him.”
Zakk also performed at Ozzy’s farewell charity concert, which raised millions for Parkinson’s research and mental health causes — causes close to Ozzy’s heart.
“He went out helping others,” Zakk said. “That was Oz. Always larger than life, but somehow still grounded.”
A Community in Mourning
Ozzy’s death has sparked emotional tributes from musicians across the globe. Among them was Geezer Butler, his Black Sabbath bandmate, who reflected on Ozzy’s final performance.
“He was so fragile,” Butler said. “He had a nurse, a cane — black with gold and jewels, of course. That was Ozzy. But it broke my heart.”
