Birmingham’s Eternal Salute to Its Metal Legend as Ozzy Osbourne’s Hearse Passes Through

The city of Birmingham, long revered as the industrial forge from which heavy metal music was born, fell into a rare and reverent silence as it honored the life and legacy of one of its most iconic sons—Ozzy Osbourne. Known across the globe as the wild, electrifying voice of Black Sabbath and a pioneer of metal, Ozzy was more than just a rock legend to the people of Birmingham. He was their own. And as the hearse carrying his body made its solemn procession through the city, the very streets that helped shape his story came alive with grief, respect, and celebration. From early morning, crowds began to gather in key areas of the city—Aston, Digbeth, Broad Street, and near the Black Sabbath Bridge. The weather matched the mood: grey clouds hung low, almost as if the sky itself was mourning. People of all ages, from elderly rock veterans to young fans who had only experienced Ozzy through records and streaming platforms, came together in a remarkable display of unity. Some wore band T-sh...