THE BEAST

The city of Birmingham will come together this Wednesday, July 30th, to pay tribute to one of its most iconic sons, the late Ozzy Osbourne. A public funeral procession will take place through the streets of the Prince of Darkness’ hometown, offering fans one final opportunity to honor the legendary Black Sabbath frontman before a private family service.

The procession will begin at 1 p.m. local time, traveling down the city’s historic Broad Street, a cultural artery in Birmingham’s entertainment district. It will pause at the famed Black Sabbath bench and nearby bridge—both of which have transformed into emotional shrines since Ozzy’s passing on July 22nd. Flowers, candles, memorabilia, and handwritten messages from mourning fans now cover the area.

Adding to the solemnity and celebration of the moment, musicians from local ensemble Bostin’ Brass will accompany the hearse with a live brass performance—a fitting nod to both Birmingham’s industrial roots and its rich musical heritage.

In a statement to The Independent, Birmingham city councillor and mayor Zafar Iqbal reflected on Ozzy’s deep ties to the city:

“Ozzy was more than a music legend – he was a son of Birmingham.

Having recently been awarded the Freedom of the City and following his celebrated appearance at the Back to the Beginning concert at Villa Park earlier this month, it was important to the city that we support a fitting, dignified tribute ahead of a private family funeral.

We know how much this moment will mean to his fans. We’re proud to host it here with his loving family in the place where it all began, and we are grateful that they have generously offered to pay to enable this to happen and support the city in giving him the farewell he deserves.”

To accommodate the large crowd expected, Birmingham city council coordinated transportation plans and temporary diversions for buses and trams in collaboration with the Osbourne family, who are covering all associated costs of the procession.

For those unable to attend in person, a livestream of the tribute at the Black Sabbath bench will be available, allowing fans from around the world to take part in the historic farewell.

A Legacy That Transcends Music

Ozzy Osbourne’s death has left an immeasurable void in the global heavy metal community. In the days since, tributes have poured in from around the world. Fellow musicians, celebrities, and fans have all expressed their grief, sharing memories of the legendary frontman’s larger-than-life persona, groundbreaking music, and indelible impact on culture.

Most notably, longtime friend and Black Sabbath bandmate Geezer Butler shared a heartfelt message recalling Ozzy as “frail” during rehearsals for what would be his final performance at the July 5th Back to the Beginning concert. Despite his physical state, Ozzy performed both solo and alongside his Black Sabbath brothers, leaving fans with an unforgettable final bow.

As Birmingham prepares to say goodbye, the world remembers a man who turned pain and darkness into art, who shocked, amused, and inspired generations—and who, through it all, never stopped being a kid from Aston with a dream.

Ozzy Osbourne may be gone, but his voice, his music, and his legacy will echo forever.