[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 80 (Tuesday, May 12, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E429]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF JOHN MICHAEL ``OZZY'' OSBOURNE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. VICTORIA SPARTZ

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 12, 2026

  Mrs. SPARTZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and 
legacy of John Michael Osbourne, known around the world as Ozzy 
Osbourne. The legendary front man of Black Sabbath and a towering 
figure in the history of rock and heavy metal.
  Ozzy came from very humble beginnings. Raised by parents who were 
both factory workers, he rose from modest circumstances to become one 
of the most influential artists of all time, a true working-class hero 
whose success never erased his authenticity or connection to ordinary 
people.
  With landmark albums like Paranoid, Master of Reality, and Black 
Sabbath Vol. 4, Black Sabbath forged a powerful new genre, one that 
captured the emotions and energy of a changing world. After his time 
with Black Sabbath, Ozzy embarked on a legendary solo career. His debut 
album, Blizzard of Ozz, introduced the world to a new chapter of his 
artistry, with hits like ``Crazy Train'' and ``Mr. Crowley'' becoming 
instant classics.
  Ozzy Osbourne sold over 120 million albums combined from his solo 
career and as a member of Black Sabbath. He has been honored with 
numerous accolades, including inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of 
Fame, both as a member of Black Sabbath and as a solo performer, as 
well as five Grammy Awards and numerous lifetime achievement 
recognitions.
  One of Ozzy's biggest successes was Ozzfest, a festival created by 
his wife and manager, Sharon, with help from his son Jack, which became 
an instant hit with metal fans and helped elevate emerging bands. That 
same family bond was later shared with millions through the 
groundbreaking MTV reality series The Osbournes, which introduced a new 
generation to Ozzy and offered an unfiltered look at the warmth, humor, 
and love that defined their home.
  Ozzy's influence was extraordinary, but his life and career were 
shaped alongside Sharon, whom he met in 1970. What began as a 
professional relationship became a lifelong partnership through which 
they built a loving family together.
  Though he was born in England, Ozzy lived more than half of his life 
in America and truly loved this country. He became an icon deeply woven 
into the fabric of American music culture and a great ambassador around 
the world for our Nation, embodying the same defiant, freedom-loving 
spirit that defines America itself. As one of the original architects 
of heavy metal, he helped forge a sound that would influence 
generations of musicians and fans alike.
  Today we say, ``no more tears,'' for Ozzy Osbourne lived life without 
restraint. His voice and memory live on as an enduring symbol of the 
rebellious independence, creative freedom, and unapologetic 
individuality at the heart of the American spirit.

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