FOZZY, the hard-hitting rock band led by wrestling superstar Chris Jericho and guitarist Rich “The Duke” Ward, has recently made headlines with a powerful tribute to one of heavy metal’s most enduring icons, Ozzy Osbourne. On September 18, the band delivered their rendition of “Crazy Train” while supporting Judas Priest and Alice Cooper at the Ameris Bank Amphitheater in Alpharetta, Georgia. Fans captured the electrifying moment on video, spreading it widely online.
The live performance wasn’t just a one-off celebration. Earlier this month, FOZZY also released a surprise studio version of their “Crazy Train” cover across all major streaming platforms. In their announcement, the band emphasized that this was more than just a cover—it was an ode to Ozzy’s impact on rock history and a way to honor the 45th anniversary of his landmark debut solo album, Blizzard of Ozz.
With their tribute, FOZZY continues a tradition of showing reverence for their musical heroes while giving fans performances filled with high energy and authenticity. It also highlights just how deeply Ozzy’s influence runs through Jericho’s vocal style and the band’s overall sound.
Jericho’s Ozzy Connection
Chris Jericho has long acknowledged the similarities between his voice and that of Ozzy Osbourne. When asked about this in an earlier interview, Jericho explained that his high-range vocal style naturally leans toward an “Ozzy-esque” quality. He pointed out that this wasn’t something he intentionally mimicked; rather, it’s simply his vocal wheelhouse.
This connection has occasionally inspired FOZZY to embrace Ozzy’s catalog directly. Back in 2012, the band recorded a version of Black Sabbath’s “Fairies Wear Boots,” with Jericho noting how strikingly close his delivery came to Ozzy’s trademark sound. Even in FOZZY’s original songs like “Nowhere to Run,” Jericho admits that certain parts feel distinctly reminiscent of Osbourne’s delivery.
Rather than shying away from the comparison, Jericho embraces it as a compliment. For him, being likened to one of rock’s greatest frontmen is a source of pride, reinforcing his place in a lineage of powerful and memorable rock vocalists.
FOZZY’s 25th Anniversary Momentum
The “Crazy Train” cover comes at a pivotal moment for FOZZY, as the band celebrates its 25th anniversary with a massive touring schedule. The 2025 leg of their “2025th Anniversary Tour” launched in April and brought the band to 20 major venues across the U.S., supported by rising acts like LILIAC and The Nocturnal Affair.
Earlier, the first U.S. leg of the anniversary tour wrapped up in October 2024, featuring support from The Nocturnal Affair and Clozure. Across both runs, FOZZY has continued to solidify its reputation as a must-see live act, blending hard-hitting originals with well-chosen covers that resonate with fans both old and new.
This milestone year not only cements FOZZY’s longevity but also showcases their ability to evolve while staying rooted in the spirit of heavy rock. By pairing new material with classic tributes, they’re ensuring their shows offer both nostalgia and fresh excitement.
New Music and Band Evolution
FOZZY hasn’t only relied on their live shows to keep momentum alive. In July, the band released a striking music video for their latest single, “Fall In Line,” directed by Lawrence Hinson. The track followed up their 2023 single “Spotlight” and continued the band’s collaboration with producer Johnny Andrews, who has helped shape their sound with modern precision and polish.
Their 2022 album Boombox further highlighted this growth, featuring fan favorites like “I Still Burn,” “Nowhere to Run,” and “Sane.” These tracks helped the band reach broader audiences, earning millions of views and securing their place on international stages.
Lineup changes have also marked this chapter of FOZZY’s journey. In 2022, longtime drummer Frank Fontsere stepped away to focus on family, making room for Grant Brooks of Through Fire. With Jericho, Ward, Billy Grey, and P.J. Farley rounding out the lineup, FOZZY’s current incarnation is proving to be one of its strongest yet.
