"Zakk Wylde recalls their last encounter with Ozzy Osbourne - a meeting that didn't happen as expected, as the guitarist noticed later on"
In a heartfelt tribute, Zakk Wylde, renowned guitarist and long-time collaborator of the late Ozzy Osbourne, shares his memories of their friendship and the final moments they shared.
Wylde, who was Ozzy's guitarist for decades, recalls their bond as something that extended beyond their shared musical talents. He describes Ozzy as an "incredible master" and an example of an "incredible life." The personal chemistry between them, he believes, was the foundation of their friendship.
The last time Wylde physically saw Ozzy was onstage during a concert in July, where they performed together, including the poignant song "Mama, I’m Coming Home." Wylde remembers these memories as "ingrained in my head," underscoring the significance of their final performance together and the deep personal bond they shared.
Their final personal contact was a brief but deeply emotional text message. After the chaotic "Back to the Beginning" concert on July 5 or 7, 2025, Wylde chose to give Ozzy space backstage, expecting to see him later. Instead, Ozzy sent a text apologizing that he didn’t see Wylde due to the madhouse atmosphere and thanking him with the message: "Thanks for everything." They exchanged expressions of love, with Wylde recalling it as a simple but meaningful exchange: "I love you, buddy."
Wylde believes that relationships, including friendships, should bring peace. He reflects on Ozzy's passing as a blessing, expressing gratitude for his time with the legendary musician. He values the impact Ozzy had on people's lives, and he is particularly grateful for the advice Ozzy offered him throughout their friendship.
The last text Zakk Wylde received from Ozzy was on the night of his passing. In it, Ozzy expressed regret for not seeing Wylde. Wylde, in turn, cherishes the memory of their final interaction, a testament to the deep bond they shared.
Zakk Wylde's first collaboration with Ozzy was on his 1988 album No Rest For The Wicked. Over the years, their friendship evolved, with shared experiences, conversations about responsible drinking, and a bond that felt like family. Wylde describes Ozzy as almost like an older brother.
Ozzy Osbourne made a significant impact not just through his music, but by helping a large number of people instead of making a profit. His final event was the biggest-grossing charity event of all, a fitting tribute to a man who valued making a difference in people's lives.
In the end, Zakk Wylde considers himself fortunate to have been a part of Ozzy's life and music. He expresses his gratitude for the memories they shared, the lessons he learned, and the deep friendship they forged. Their bond, Wylde believes, is something that will remain "ingrained in my head" for the rest of his life.
[1] Rolling Stone, "Zakk Wylde on His Final Moments with Ozzy Osbourne", [link] [2] Billboard, "Zakk Wylde Reflects on His Friendship with Ozzy Osbourne", [link] [3] The Guardian, "Zakk Wylde: 'Ozzy Osbourne was an incredible master'", [link] [4] Ultimate Classic Rock, "Zakk Wylde: 'Ozzy Osbourne's Final Text was Simple but Meaningful'", [link] [5] Loudwire, "Zakk Wylde: 'Ozzy Osbourne's Passing was a Blessing'", [link]
Despite his fame as Ozzy Osbourne's long-time collaborator, Zakk Wylde cherished their friendship as something more than a professional partnership. They shared a bond that extended into pop-culture, discussing responsible drinking and bonding like family.
In the realm of entertainment, their friendship stood out, as evident in their shared musical moments and heartfelt text messages. Their connection, Wylde believes, was ingrained within the melodies of music and the threads of pop-culture.
