The Prince of Darkness is set to receive a royal welcome into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary metal vocalist, will be inducted as a solo artist on October 19th in Cleveland, marking his second entry into the prestigious institution.
The ceremony promises to be an unforgettable night, with a lineup of performers that reads like a who's who of rock royalty. Jack Black, the multi-talented actor and musician, will have the honor of inducting Osbourne. The two share a long-standing friendship, with Osbourne praising Black as "one of the few great actors that is also a genuine rock & roller."
A musical tribute to Osbourne's solo career will feature an eclectic mix of artists. Country sensation Jelly Roll, punk icon Billy Idol, and Tool's Maynard James Keenan are slated to perform some of Osbourne's classic hits. The backing band is equally impressive, with Zakk Wylde, Osbourne's longtime guitarist, leading the charge. He'll be joined by producer Andrew Watt, Billy Idol's guitarist Steve Stevens, and Wolfgang Van Halen.
The rhythm section boasts some serious star power as well. Metallica's Robert Trujillo, who previously played with Osbourne, will handle bass duties. Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith will keep the beat, while Adam Wakeman rounds out the group on keyboards.
Osbourne, who was first inducted with Black Sabbath in 2006, expressed both shock and excitement about this solo recognition. "I'm still in shock that I'm getting inducted for a second time," he told Rolling Stone. "But at the same time, I'm very excited."
The induction ceremony will be available for fans to experience in multiple ways. It will stream live on Disney+, with a televised special airing on ABC at a later date. The event will also be available on Hulu.
As Osbourne prepares for this momentous occasion, he remains humble and grateful. When asked about the star-studded lineup paying tribute to his career, he simply stated, "It's a very humbling feeling."
For fans of rock and metal, this induction ceremony promises to be an electrifying celebration of one of music's most iconic figures. With such an impressive array of talent on display, it's sure to be a night that will go down in Rock Hall history.