Key Insights from Ozzy Osbourne’s Memoir ‘Last Rites’
Ozzy Osbourne’s life and career have been the subject of numerous tellings, including books and documentaries. His latest memoir, Last Rites, reveals insights into the challenges of his later years. Released recently, this memoir was developed with collaborator Chris Ayres and reflects on Osbourne’s various medical and personal battles.
Key Insights from Ozzy Osbourne’s Memoir ‘Last Rites’
The memoir highlights significant events and struggles in Osbourne’s life, particularly during his final years. Below are some key takeaways:
1. Vegas Residency Plans
In 2018, Osbourne planned his No More Tours II tour, intending it as a farewell. His wife, Sharon, looked at possibilities of a Las Vegas residency post-tour. However, Osbourne was ambivalent about the idea.
2. Relapse and Addiction
Osbourne detailed a significant relapse in 2012 after achieving years of sobriety. He began drinking again, leading to a cycle of substance abuse. He also struggled with addiction to steroids during the farewell tour, resulting in aggressive outbursts.
3. Impact of Television Fame
During the early 2000s, Osbourne starred in the highly viewed reality TV show, The Osbournes. He described becoming addicted to the fame it brought, which affected his relationships and mental health. The family struggled to adjust to life after the show ended.
4. Musical Influences and Collaborations
Osbourne shared stories about his musical inspirations and collaborations. He became infatuated with Peter Gabriel’s album So in the mid-1980s. Additionally, he reminisced about recording a version of “Iron Man” with Busta Rhymes in 2000, a chaotic experience that involved tough security encounters.
5. Black Sabbath and Band Dynamics
- In 2012, Osbourne faced disappointment when drummer Bill Ward did not join the Black Sabbath reunion.
- Rick Rubin suggested Ginger Baker as a replacement, a notion Osbourne deemed too risky.
- Osbourne insisted on Tommy Clufetos as drummer for the tour, causing tensions within the band.
- Osbourne reconciled with Ward via text a decade after their fallout, expressing emotional sentiments.
6. Personal Life Challenges
In 2016, scandals arose surrounding Osbourne’s infidelity, which he openly acknowledged in the memoir. He reflected on the pain caused to his wife and family and noted the impacts of his actions.
7. Final Years and Exploitation
As health issues mounted in his later years, Osbourne discussed being targeted by scammers. He detailed attempts by fraudulent individuals to exploit his condition, including one incident where he was deceived into paying for ineffective treatments.
Osbourne’s Last Rites serves not only as a reflection of his turbulent history but also highlights the resilience he displayed in the face of adversity. His story resonates with themes of addiction, fame, and redemption, offering readers a candid view of the man behind the music.
