BREAKING: Black Sabbath Drummer Bill Ward pa…read more.
Black Sabbath drummer Bill Ward has released his first public statement following the death of Ozzy Osbourne, the iconic frontman of the legendary heavy metal band. Ward’s message, shared on social media, reflects both sorrow and gratitude toward the man with whom he helped shape an entire genre.
Osbourne passed away on July 22, 2025, leaving behind a legacy that redefined rock music. Tributes have poured in from across the music world, but Ward’s words carry special weight, coming from someone who shared the stage and studio with Osbourne during the formative years of Black Sabbath.
In his statement, Ward wrote:
“Where will I find you now? In the memories, our unspoken embraces, our missed phone calls no, you’re forever in my heart. Deepest condolences to Sharon and all family members. RIP. Sincere regrets to all the fans. Never goodbye. Thank you forever. Bill Ward.”
The brief message, posted alongside an old photograph of the pair, resonated deeply with fans. Many noted how Ward’s tone reflected the quiet, reflective nature that has long defined his public persona. His words offered a glimpse into the personal connection the two shared beyond their legendary partnership on stage.
Ward’s tribute follows earlier statements from Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler, who both expressed their grief and appreciation for Osbourne’s impact. Iommi described Ozzy as “one of a kind a brother who could make us all laugh even in the hardest times,” while Butler remembered him as “the soul of Black Sabbath.”
Although Ward had not been an active member of the band in recent years, the bond between the four original members remained intact. Their shared history, dating back to the late 1960s, laid the foundation for heavy metal and influenced generations of musicians. In 2025, the original lineup reunited one final time in Birmingham for the Back to the Beginning concert, marking a historic and now deeply emotional moment in retrospect.
In an earlier interview, Ward reflected on that performance, saying he had wanted to check on Ozzy immediately after leaving the drum platform. “It was instinct,” he said. “I just wanted to make sure Ozzy was okay.” That comment now feels especially poignant in light of Osbourne’s passing.
Osbourne’s death has left an enormous void in the world of music. Artists ranging from Metallica to Foo Fighters and Iron Maiden have publicly honored his influence and charisma. For millions of fans, his voice from “War Pigs” to “Paranoid” and “Iron Man” defined the sound of heavy metal.
Bill Ward’s message stands out for its simplicity and sincerity. Rather than a long statement or public display, his words capture the personal side of loss: friendship, respect, and shared memories that endure beyond time.
As Ward concluded, “Never goodbye” a fitting farewell from one founding brother of Black Sabbath to another, ensuring that even in silence, the bond and the music they created together will never fade.
