On July 22, 2025, fans of the legendary heavy metal icon Ozzy Osbourne will have the opportunity to bid their final farewells as his cortege makes its way through his beloved hometown of Birmingham. The procession promises to be a momentous occasion, reflecting both the reverence for Osbourne’s monumental contributions to music and the deep affection his fans hold for him. This event will occur on Broad Street, commencing at 1:00 PM BST, allowing everyone to gather and share in their collective grief.
The hearse will proceed to the Black Sabbath Bridge, a site particularly significant to many fans, where they have left behind an array of floral tributes and heartfelt messages commemorating the iconic frontman of Black Sabbath. Local musicians, including the brass ensemble Bostin’ Brass, will accompany the procession, adding a fitting musical touch to the mournful but celebratory atmosphere. Osbourne passed away at the age of 76, shortly after performing in his farewell concert at Villa Park on July 5.
Zafar Iqbal, the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, expressed the city’s sense of pride and honor in celebrating the life of a true “son of Birmingham.” He acknowledged Osbourne’s role in putting Birmingham on the global music map, declaring it a community duty to pay their last respects to such a significant figure in the city’s history. This heartfelt tribute highlights how Osbourne has ingrained himself into the cultural fabric of Birmingham.
Fans from around the world have been making their way to the Black Sabbath Bridge, adding to the mountain of flowers and messages commemorating the artist. Notably, individuals have come from as far afield as Mexico, the USA, and Poland, showcasing Osbourne’s international impact and appeal. As the event approaches, Broad Street will be closed to traffic starting from 7:00 AM BST to accommodate the expected large gathering, with local public transport services, including buses and trams, rerouted for the day to ensure safety and accessibility.
The procession’s significance is amplified by the fact that it precedes a private funeral, providing Osbourne’s family a chance to see the immense love his fans have expressed through memorials and tributes. This contemplative return to Birmingham, where it all began for him, serves as both a personal farewell and a communal gathering for fans who have followed his career.
In conjunction with this procession, a book of condolence will be available at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. Furthermore, the Ozzy Osbourne Working Class Hero exhibition, inaugurated by Sharon Osbourne, aims to celebrate his legacy. The city has also produced cultural tributes to Ozzy, including the Black Sabbath mural located on Navigation Street and “Ozzy the Bull,” a representation at New Street Station, underscoring his quintessential role in establishing heavy metal music.
Given that Ozzy Osbourne and his bandmates from Black Sabbath, including Tony Iommi, Bill Ward, and Geezer Butler, received the Freedom of the City in June just prior to his farewell concert, the coordination of this event showcases Birmingham’s discussion on honoring homegrown talent.
In summary, the cortege will allow fans to gather together in solidarity, reminisce about Osbourne’s incredible music journey, and partake in a united farewell, representing a collective acknowledgment of his vibrant and lasting legacy in the world of music. The city officials emphasized that they have taken rapid steps to ensure the event unfolds smoothly, expressing gratitude toward Osbourne’s family for sponsoring the costs associated with this memorial tribute. This occasion will not only celebrate the artistry of a beloved musician but also encapsulate the communal spirit of a city united in sorrow and tribute to one of its most prolific sons.
