opinion

Ozzy Osbourne Dead at 76: Austin Bands Post Tributes, Alamo Finally Safe

Austin musicians mourn the loss of Ozzy Osbourne, the man who turned public urination into an art form.

Merrick “Renegade” Cruz

By Merrick “Renegade” Cruz

Published July 22, 2025 at 8:28pm


The world has lost a true legend—Ozzy Osbourne, the man who proved that you could bite the head off a bat, urinate on historical monuments, and still somehow be considered a national treasure. At 76, the Prince of Darkness has finally taken his last ride on the Crazy Train, leaving behind a legacy of chaos, questionable life choices, and, oh yeah, some pretty good music.

Austin musicians, ever the opportunists, have taken to social media to mourn the loss of the man who once turned the Alamo into his personal urinal. Because nothing says "respect" like a hastily typed Instagram caption next to a blurry photo from that one time you met him backstage. Brown Sabbath, Austin’s very own Latin-infused Black Sabbath cover band, posted a tribute, because of course they did. Ozzy once called their covers "a lot of fun," which, coming from a man who once snorted a line of ants, is high praise indeed.

Meanwhile, Austin producer Tim Palmer reminisced about working with Ozzy, calling him "kind" and "sweet." Sure, Tim. The same guy who allegedly once tried to strangle his own wife while blackout drunk on tour. But hey, he hit the right notes, so all is forgiven. Palmer also noted that Ozzy’s voice had "unmistakable character," which is a polite way of saying it sounded like a demon gargling gravel.

Resound Presents, Austin’s boutique booking agency, chimed in with their own tribute, calling Ozzy "THE Icon." Bold claim, considering the man once mistook his wife for a hat. But hey, he did invent an entire genre of music, so we’ll let it slide. After all, where would metal be without Ozzy? Probably a lot less bat-related incidents, that’s for sure.

So here’s to you, Ozzy. May your afterlife be filled with all the bats, booze, and bad decisions your heart desires. And to the city of San Antonio—rest easy knowing the Alamo is finally safe from his bladder. For now.