At the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, held on September 7 at New York’s UBS Arena, rock icons came together for an unforgettable performance honoring the late Ozzy Osbourne, the “Prince of Darkness.” Kicking off the tribute, a reflective video opened with heartfelt words from Ozzy’s son, Jack.
“I know for sure it would make him incredibly happy to see these great musicians carry on his legacy and help inspire the next generation of rockers,” Jack said, before offering a special shout-out to the performers. “We love you, Dad.”
The tribute unfolded in powerful stages. Rising star Yungblud and Extreme’s Nuno Bettencourt began with a gritty and energetic rendition of “Crazy Train,” followed by a soulful take on Black Sabbath’s “Changes.”
Next, Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith joined them for the emotional climax: an impassioned performance of “Mama, I’m Coming Home,” with Yungblud adding his voice in the final moments and Bettencourt accompanying Perry on acoustic guitar.
After the performance, Yungblud declared, “Ozzy forever, man!” before the group shared a moving embrace on stage.
On the red carpet, Bettencourt revealed how meaningful the occasion was to him personally. He admitted that his 15-year-old self could hardly believe he’d be paying tribute to his idol: “We’re gonna blow the roof off the place… maybe a few tears at the end.”
Added resonance came knowing many of those on stage had attended Ozzy’s final concert. Tyler, Yungblud, and Bettencourt had stood with him at Black Sabbath’s heartfelt farewell show in Birmingham earlier that summer. Bettencourt described the experience as “heavy metal summer camp,” filled with camaraderie and emotional farewells.
This tribute wasn’t just a musical gesture; it was a collective salute to a living legend who shaped heavy music for generations. Aerosmith had already shared a moving response following Ozzy’s death, calling his voice “a voice that changed music forever,” and acknowledging the grit and heart he brought to the stage.
The VMAs, hosted by LL Cool J, featured a lineup that blended genres and eras—ranging from Lady Gaga to Post Malone—but the tribute was the evening’s most emotionally charged highlight.
