Slash, Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators Pay Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne
Taking on the monumental task of covering an Ozzy Osbourne classic is enough to make even the most seasoned rock musicians nervous. The stakes are even higher when you know that Ozzy himself is in the audience, joined by Sharon, his ever-present support. In the shadow of Ozzy Osbourne’s recent passing, this unforgettable moment feels even more significant—watching a tribute that left the legend on his feet, applauding with pride and genuine joy beside his wife.
Back in 2014, the MTV Europe Music Awards turned into a celebration of heavy metal history as a handpicked group of rock icons took the stage to honor Ozzy. The centerpiece of the tribute was a searing version of “Crazy Train,” a song that marked a turning point in Ozzy’s career after his departure from Black Sabbath. That iconic riff, instantly recognizable to fans around the world, set the tone as Ozzy and Sharon watched from the front row, anticipation written on their faces.
Gathered onstage for this extraordinary moment was a lineup that read like a who’s who of modern rock: Slash from Guns N’ Roses, his longtime partner in crime Myles Kennedy, the energetic Conspirators, and Biffy Clyro’s own Simon Neil. Each brought their own flair to the performance, combining experience and raw talent to breathe new life into a metal anthem. The crowd roared as the first notes hit, signaling something special was about to unfold.
The performance soared as Kennedy and Neil traded off vocal duties, capturing both the grit and melody that “Crazy Train” demands. Slash’s masterful guitar work echoed the brilliance of Randy Rhoads, and his interpretation of the solo was nothing short of electrifying. Backed by tight rhythms and bold stage presence, the supergroup delivered an explosive rendition that showed both reverence and creative spirit, determined to make Ozzy proud.
As the band played on, the audience was treated to a dazzling display of lights and effects, amplifying the energy surging through the arena. But the true showstopper came when Slash stepped forward for the song’s blistering solo. He blazed through the section with effortless cool, his guitar work paying homage to the original while adding his own signature fire. The entire venue was locked in, hanging on every note as the performance built to its climax.
At the conclusion of the performance, you might have mistaken Ozzy’s serious expression for indifference. Yet, the instant the music stopped, Ozzy sprang to his feet and applauded, offering a long, heartfelt standing ovation. That reaction spoke volumes—it wasn’t just approval, it was admiration from a man who’s seen it all. Slash soon went online, praising Ozzy as both an enduring legend and a true friend, cementing the camaraderie between icons of rock’s past and present.
Seeing a classic like “Crazy Train” honored on a night otherwise dominated by chart-topping pop, hip-hop, and RnB was a breath of fresh air for every rock fan in the room. This wasn’t just nostalgia—it was proof of the song’s lasting power, cutting through the trends and standing tall in the spotlight. The audience, filled with fans new and old, responded with wild enthusiasm, knowing they’d just witnessed something rare and extraordinary.
The event underscored just how deeply Ozzy’s influence has seeped into generations of musicians. By inviting such a stellar cast of performers, the organizers didn’t just pay tribute to a song—they celebrated a living, evolving legacy. It was as if, for a few minutes, time stood still and the magic of classic metal united everyone in the room, regardless of genre or age.
It was a blast honoring @OzzyOsbourne at the #EMAs last night. The man is definitely a Global Icon. & a good friend. iiii]; )'
— Slash (@Slash) November 10, 2014
Reflecting on that performance now, in the wake of Ozzy’s passing, the memory carries an extra weight. It reminds us that great music—and the artists who create it—can inspire, heal, and connect us across decades. Every ovation, every shared grin between the musicians, every cheer from the crowd is a testament to Ozzy’s enduring place in music history.
Ozzy Osbourne may no longer be with us, but tributes like this ensure his spirit continues to energize and inspire. Moments when rock’s brightest stars come together to honor their hero are a vivid reminder: the Prince of Darkness may be gone, but his influence will thunder on, every time a new generation picks up a guitar and learns that immortal riff.
