Pantera have announced some changes to their live schedule in order to allow them the time to properly grieve the loss of the late great heavy metal icon Ozzy Osbourne, who passed away earlier this week at the age of 76. Current Pantera guitarist Zakk Wylde of course served as Ozzy‘s right-hand man on stage for decades. He also performed alongside the Prince Of Darkness during the solo portion of his final live set at the July 05th ‘Back To The Beginning‘ concert in Birmingham, UK.
Pantera themselves also took part in that monumental show, delivering covers of a pair of Black Sabbath tracks during their set ahead Sabbath‘s own live farewell. Taking to social media today, July 25th, the Texan groove metal band stated:
“Ozzy wasn’t just a legend who shaped the very foundation of heavy metal and inspired Pantera from the beginning — he was family. A mentor, a brother, and a constant presence in our lives both on and off the stage. The bond we shared with him ran far deeper than music.
In light of this profound loss, we need time and space to grieve — to be with our families, our crew, and each other as we process and honor the life of someone who meant so much to us.
Out of respect, and to allow members of our team the time to mourn, we will be rescheduling the following shows:
July 28 – Saratoga Springs, NY – Tuesday, September 9
July 31 – Holmdel, NJ – Monday, September 8Due to the above, the following dates will be canceled. If you purchased through Ticketmaster, refunds will be issued automatically; there is nothing further ticketholders need to do. If you purchased from a third-party reseller (StubHub, SeatGeek, VividSeats, etc.), please reach out to your point of purchase.
July 29 – Gilford, NH
September 8 – Birmingham, AL
September 10 – Virginia Beach, VAWe appreciate your understanding during this difficult time.”
Pantera have played three dates, including tonight’s show in Hershey, PA following the passing of Osbourne, and have adapted their set to pay tribute to Ozzy via backdrop imagery and live performances of their cover Black Sabbath‘s “Planet Caravan“.
