The heavy metal world and music lovers as a whole have been dealt a heartwrenching blow: Ozzy Osbourne, Prince of Darkness, has officially announced his retirement from touring.
The iconic rock star has come forward to say that his beat-down body can no longer bear the physical strain of touring. The news has sparked a global requiem for the undisputed king of heavy metal.
The former Black Sabbath frontman has officially announced his retirement from touring, amid a myriad of health concerns that are affecting his overall quality of life.
Four years ago, Ozzy suffered a life-altering spinal injury. That, along with several subsequent surgeries, has rendered the legendary rocker incapable of enduring trans-Atlantic travel.
However, the heavy metal icon reasoned that he couldn't in good conscience ask his loyal horde to hold out any longer.
Just last year, Ozzy spoke with PEOPLE magazine and declared that the road was a part of him. "It's where I belong," he conveyed. "The relationship I have with my audience is the biggest love affair of my life."
Ozzy went on to explain how his team was hard at work, attempting to come up with ways wherein he could still perform without having to go from city to city/country to country.
Plenty of platforms, such as Spotify, Songkick, and Bandsintown allow artists to live-stream concerts — even from the comfort of their own homes if they so choose.
"Ozzman we love you forever," @cnvii77 tweeted. "I was blessed to see you live multiple times. No one ever gave more to the fans than you did. Thank you for everything."
Whether it be via live stream, concert video, or in an alleyway around the corner, one thing for certain is that the Prince of Darkness' fans will follow wherever he leads them.
