Post Malone's Emotional Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne at the 2026 Grammys
In a heart-wrenching performance, Post Malone led an all-star tribute to the legendary Ozzy Osbourne during the 2026 Grammy Awards' In Memoriam segment. The tribute, a powerful rendition of Black Sabbath's iconic 'War Pigs,' featured a star-studded lineup including Watt, Slash, Duff McKagan, and Chad Smith. As Malone's soulful voice echoed through the arena, Ozzy's widow, Sharon Osbourne, and their children, Kelly and Jack, watched from the audience, overcome with emotion. The song, a protest against war, served as the opening track from Black Sabbath's groundbreaking 1970 album, 'Paranoid.'
This tribute was a testament to Ozzy's enduring legacy. Post Malone's collaboration with Black Sabbath's frontman on songs like 'Take What You Want' and 'It's a Raid' showcased their musical synergy. Similarly, Watt's executive production on Ozzy's final albums, 'Ordinary Man' and 'Patient Number 9,' further solidified their creative partnership. Slash's feature on the 2010 track 'Crucify the Dead' and the contributions of McKagan and Smith to Ozzy's last records highlighted the depth of their musical connections.
Osbourne's passing in July 2025, at the age of 76, after a long battle with Parkinson's disease, left a profound impact. His final performance, just weeks before his death, was a five-song solo set and four-song Sabbath set at the 'Back to the Beginning' festival in Birmingham, England. The event was a fitting tribute, featuring performances from Slayer, Tool, Billy Corgan, Tom Morello, and Sammy Hagar, among others.
The Grammys' tribute to Ozzy Osbourne followed a similar all-star tribute at the MTV Video Music Awards in September, where Aerosmith's Steven Tyler and British singer Yungblud performed a three-song set, including covers of 'Crazy Train,' 'Changes,' and 'Mama I'm Coming Home.'
Osbourne's life and music continue to be celebrated through the documentary 'No Escape From Now,' released on Paramount Plus in October. The film provides a poignant glimpse into Ozzy's struggles with chronic pain and Parkinson's disease, offering a deeper understanding of his remarkable journey.
