Blinded by Tears: A Farewell to Ozzy Osbourne

Damian Cousins recalls the albums that made him a believer — and the night he saw Ozzy, hours before his world changed forever.

So, as we all know, Ozzy Osbourne has passed. And if it’s cool with you, I just wanted to share a few thoughts.

Truth be told, I was a little late to the party. For a long time, I didn’t quite get all the hype. I know, I know — go ahead and tar and feather me. But eventually, it all clicked. The one-two punch of The Ultimate Sin and No Rest for the Wicked made me sit up and take notice. Those were the records that opened the door for me.

Yeah, I know about the earlier solo albums. And of course, Black Sabbath. But those two late-’80s records? That’s when the lightbulb went on.

Let’s not forget the cavalcade of guitar gods Ozzy surrounded himself with. From Randy Rhoads to Jake E. Lee, Brad Gillis to Zakk Wylde — that’s a murderer’s row of six-string slayers. Each one brought their own style and firepower, and every era hit just as hard — so hard that you may have needed your jaw reset.

I was lucky enough to see Ozzy live in December 2007. It was a big show for me, not just because it was Ozzy, but because it turned out to be the night before my mom passed away. I like to think she held on just long enough for me to have that night out with one of my best buddies.

Listen, Ozzy meant — and still means — so much to so many of us. Hell, as I type this, my eyes are blinded by tears. But I wanted to share and honor this man who’s been part of the soundtrack of my life for decades.

Thanks for reading. And thank you, Ozzy, for everything.
Rest in power, Prince of Darkness.

— THE MAESTRO