In a recent interview with Metal Hammer, Ozzy Osbourne opened up about his decision to cancel the European tour and his determination to continue performing despite health challenges. The Prince of Darkness shared his plans to return to his life as a ‘road dog’ and his commitment to getting back on stage for his fans.
Ozzy Osbourne had previously announced his retirement from touring, which led to misconceptions about his complete departure from the music industry. However, he clarified that his health struggles with Parkinson’s, neck surgery, and mobility issues have only forced him to reconsider touring, not retiring as a musician.
Why is he so determined to get back on stage? That is the only lifestyle he knows, as Ozzy shared some personal experiences. He recalled performing at Nassau Coliseum in New York when his voice gave out, but the fans still gave him a standing ovation. For Ozzy, his fans’ support motivates him to continue performing, even when faced with challenges.
Ozzy Osbourne’s words about playing live shows on the road read:
“I remember some good gigs, and I’ve done my fair share of f*cking bad gigs. A guitar player can change his guitar. A drummer can change the drum. If my voice goes, I’m f*cked. One time I was at a gig at Nassau Coliseum in New York. On the way to the gig, my voice went out. The kids were already there, and I thought, ‘What the f*ck am I going to do now?’ I went out and tried to sing, and they gave me a standing ovation. The kids would rather see you being bad than go home.”
He added:
“I mean, doing a live show is what I live for. I’ve had to cancel my [2023] European tour, but I’m determined. I’ve got to do more gigs if I have to get someone to wheel me out there. I mean, you can’t retire from this game. It’s not a job; it’s a f*cking passion. I don’t know how to do anything else. The thought of sitting in my house all day, I’m a road dog, you know? I’ve been doing it f*cking 55 years. It’s the best thing to have ever happened to me.”
It is clear that Ozzy is decisive to continue performing for his fans despite health setbacks. By sharing personal experiences and his passion for live shows, Ozzy demonstrates that he is, indeed, a ‘road dog’ who will do whatever it takes to get back on stage.
