Full Breakdown
Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards
9/6/2025, 12:29:58 PM
Honoring a Rock Legend
The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) will feature a tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne, the iconic frontman of Black Sabbath, who passed away on July 22, 2025, at the age of 76. The tribute will include an all-star performance by Aerosmith's Steven Tyler and Joe Perry, British singer Yungblud, and Extreme guitarist Nuno Bettencourt. This medley of Osbourne's greatest hits is set to take place at New York's UBS Arena on September 7, 2025, during the live broadcast starting at 8 p.m. ET on CBS, MTV, and streaming on Paramount+.
A Legacy of Influence
Ozzy Osbourne's influence on rock music is profound, with over 120 million albums sold and multiple accolades, including five Grammy Awards and two inductions into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame—first with Black Sabbath in 2006 and as a solo artist in 2024. His relationship with MTV began in the 1980s with appearances on "Headbanger's Ball" and continued with the reality series "The Osbournes," which aired from 2002 to 2005, showcasing his family life and personality.
The Tribute Performance
The tribute performance at the VMAs will mark a significant moment for the artists involved, particularly for Yungblud, who has expressed deep admiration for Osbourne. He participated in Osbourne's farewell concert, "Back to the Beginning," just weeks before the rock legend's death, where he performed the Black Sabbath ballad "Changes." Yungblud has vowed to honor Osbourne's memory by performing this song at every show, stating, “I will try my best to do you proud Oz.”
Official Statements & Responses
Following Osbourne's death, his family released a statement expressing their profound sadness, noting, “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away.” Aerosmith also paid tribute, saying, “We’re heartbroken to hear about the passing of our brother in rock, Ozzy Osbourne. A voice that changed music forever.”
Criticism & Opposition
While the tribute has been largely celebrated, some critics have pointed out that the VMAs have historically focused on pop and hip-hop artists, questioning whether a tribute to a heavy metal icon like Osbourne fits the current direction of the awards show. However, many fans and artists alike view this tribute as a necessary acknowledgment of Osbourne's significant impact on the music industry.
What's Next
The VMAs will also feature performances from other prominent artists, including Lady Gaga, Sabrina Carpenter, and Doja Cat. Additionally, Mariah Carey will receive the Video Vanguard Award, while Busta Rhymes and Ricky Martin will be honored for their contributions to music. The event promises to be a celebration of not only Osbourne's legacy but also the diverse landscape of contemporary music.
Verbatim Quotes
- “They’ve asked me to pay tribute to you at the @vmas on Sunday night. I’ll try my best to do you proud Oz. Tune in from up there. I love you forever. ??.” — Yungblud
- “We’re heartbroken to hear about the passing of our brother in rock, Ozzy Osbourne. A voice that changed music forever. From Black Sabbath to his solo work, Ozzy redefined what it meant to be heavy.” — Aerosmith
This tribute at the VMAs is poised to be a heartfelt celebration of Ozzy Osbourne's life and legacy, reflecting the deep connections he forged within the music community.
