2025 VMAs: Ozzy Osbourne Tribute – Tyler, Yungblud Perform

Ozzy Osbourne‘s Legacy Celebrated with All-Star Tribute at the VMAs

Elmont, NY – The MTV Video music Awards on Sunday night paid homage to the legendary Ozzy Osbourne, a figure instrumental in the network’s revitalization with the hit reality show, The Osbournes. The tribute featured a star-studded lineup of musicians who delivered a powerful medley of Osbourne’s iconic songs.

Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler and joe Perry, Yungblud, and Extreme’s Nuno Bettencourt were among the artists who took to the stage at the UBS Arena to honor the “Prince of Darkness.” Keyboardist Adam Wakeman, a longtime collaborator with Osbourne in both Black Sabbath and his solo career, orchestrated the musical homage.

The segment began with a heartfelt video message from Osbourne’s son, Jack, and his grandchildren. “I know for sure it would make him incredibly happy to see these great musicians carry on his legacy,” Jack shared,before the family collectively shouted Osbourne’s famous catchphrase,”Let’s go crazy!”

Yungblud ignited the performance with a shout of “All aboard!” launching into “Crazy Train.” Bettencourt masterfully recreated Randy rhoads’ signature guitar solo, showcasing his notable skill. Wakeman than transitioned the tribute to a more somber note, taking over on piano for “Changes,” with Yungblud delivering a raw and emotional vocal performance. The finale saw Bettencourt on acoustic guitar, playing the intro to “Mama, I’m Coming Home.” Tyler and Perry then emerged, joining Yungblud to bring the tribute to a stirring conclusion.The performance held extra significance as it marked a rare reunion for Aerosmith’s Tyler and Perry,who have been largely inactive as a band as announcing their farewell tour.

Notably, Yungblud, Bettencourt, and Tyler all participated in Osbourne’s “Back to the Beginning” farewell concert just weeks before his passing on July 22nd. At that event, Yungblud performed “changes,” while Bettencourt was part of Tom morello’s All-Star backing band. Tyler sang lead vocals on songs by Led Zeppelin and Aerosmith, though not any Ozzy-fronted tracks.

The VMA tribute served as a powerful reminder of Ozzy Osbourne’s enduring influence on music and pop culture, celebrated by a community of artists who clearly hold him in high regard.