Def Leppard Pay Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne With Black Sabbath’s “Changes”

A Night of Remembrance in Saratoga Springs

Last night in Saratoga Springs, New York, Def Leppard paused their show to honor one of heavy metal’s most legendary figures: Ozzy Osbourne. Just hours after news broke of Ozzy’s passing, frontman Joe Elliott addressed the crowd with heartfelt words before leading the band into a moving rendition of Black Sabbath’s “Changes.”

We all know just a few hours ago we lost our beloved Ozzy Osbourne, Elliott said from the stage. So tonight we’re celebrating Ozzy.

A Classic Song Revisited

“Changes” originally appeared on Black Sabbath’s 1972 album Vol. 4, showcasing a softer, more emotional side of the band. In 2003, Ozzy re-recorded the track as a duet with his daughter Kelly, revising the lyrics into a father-daughter ballad that became a chart hit worldwide. Def Leppard’s tribute highlighted the timeless power of the song while honoring the Prince of Darkness himself.

The Passing of a Legend

Ozzy Osbourne’s family confirmed his death in a statement on Tuesday morning (July 22):

It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time.

No official cause of death has been released, though Osbourne had endured years of serious health struggles, including Parkinson’s disease, a dangerous fall in 2019, and complications from a 2003 quad-bike accident. He also battled COVID-19 three years ago, forcing him to cancel a number of planned tours.

Ozzy’s Final Bow

Just over two weeks before his passing, Ozzy gave his final performance with Black Sabbath at Villa Park in Birmingham, U.K. The hometown show drew over 40,000 fans in person and nearly six million more on livestream. Seated on a bat-adorned throne, Ozzy performed four Sabbath classics with the band and later delivered a solo set of his own. It was a fitting farewell for one of music’s most enduring and influential frontmen.

The Legacy of the Prince of Darkness

Diagnosed in 2003 with a rare genetic form of Parkinson’s known as Parkin 2, Ozzy lived with the disease for over two decades. Despite his health challenges, he remained dedicated to his fans, performing at the Commonwealth Games in 2022 and the NFL season opener halftime show later that year. His resilience, humor, and larger-than-life persona cemented his place as a cultural icon.

For millions around the world, Ozzy Osbourne was more than a performer—he was the embodiment of rock’s rebellious spirit. From the early days of Black Sabbath to his solo success, he forever changed the landscape of music.

Honoring a Legend

Def Leppard’s tribute was more than a cover — it was a reminder of Ozzy’s reach across genres, generations, and borders. As fans in Saratoga Springs lifted their voices with the band, it became clear: Ozzy Osbourne may have left this world, but his music and his spirit will echo forever.