Metallica bassist/vocalist Robert Trujillo took the time to reflect on the passing of his former bandmate Ozzy Osbourne ahead of attending the funeral for the revered heavy metal icon. Trujillo was a fixture in the Ozzy‘s solo band from 1996 through to 2003, when he left to join up with Metallica. He would later go on to appear on Ozzy‘s 2022 album “Patient Number 9” as a session musician.
Speaking yesterday, July 29th, ahead of the somber occasion, Trujillo stated:
“Sadly, we’re heading back to London today for Ozzy’s funeral. I just want to say…
Ozzy was the conduit for so many new relationships both creative collaborations and real, lasting friendships.
I mean, Joe Holmes is Lullah’s godfather, and Mike Bordin is Tye’s godfather both of those connections came directly from my friendship with Ozzy. Because of Oz, Infectious Grooves was able to tour back in ’91 as a brand-new band and at the time, it wasn’t even really a band, just some fun songs we had recorded. We weren’t ready to hit the road, but he made us step up and make it happen.
He loved the song “Therapy,” which he guest appeared on and that really kicked it all off for Infectious in the ’90s. He actually demanded we open for him on the “Theater of Madness” tour. He’d say “I’m your best friend Rob, I fucking love the bass and the funkier and heavier the better!”
He was the gateway.
Ozzy was a humble man and sometimes so honest it hurt but his sense of humor made everything absolutely amazing. Touring with Ozzy and Zakk was always a wild adventure. Those two together… it was a crazy, awesome rollercoaster.
We’re all so thankful for his heart and soul.
Ozzy and Black Sabbath were and still are the soundtrack to our lives. The inspiration they gave us is beyond words. The first real alternative rock band, in my opinion.
Now it’s time to pay our respects, share our love, and offer our support to Sharon and the family. It’s heartbreaking but we know Ozzy gave us everything he had in his final days.
I’m so honored that Lars, James, Kirk, and I (Metallica) got to celebrate with him, to share our music and Sabbath’s music on such a special day in Birmingham. Being part of that meant so much to us.
Ozzy, RIP brother.
We love you. @ozzyosbourne”
Metallica were of course one of the numerous artists to share the stage with Ozzy and Black Sabbath during their ‘Back To The Beginning‘ live farewell in Birmingham, UK on July 05th. Osbourne passed away on July 22nd. A public funeral procession for Osbourne was held in that city this morning with a private funeral service to follow.
