At the 68th Annual Grammy Awards, British rocker Yungblud delivered one of the night’s most memorable moments by taking home the Grammy for Best Rock Performance for his live cover of Black Sabbath’s “Changes.” The rendition — recorded at the Back to the Beginning concert last July in Birmingham and featuring a lineup of esteemed collaborators — was dedicated to the late Ozzy Osbourne, who died in July 2025 at the age of 76.
Joined onstage by Sharon Osbourne, along with fellow musicians Nuno Bettencourt, Frank Bello, and Adam Wakeman, Yungblud reflected on the deep influence Osbourne had on his life and career as he accepted the award. “To grow up loving an idol who helps you figure out your identity, not only as a musician but as a man, is something I’m truly grateful for,” he said, acknowledging both the personal and artistic impact of the metal icon.
Yungblud described the experience of honoring Ozzy at what would be the legendary singer’s final show as surreal, saying the band members are still trying to comprehend the moment. “We f—ing love you Ozzy,” he told the crowd and viewers at home, capturing the emotional weight of the tribute. His speech emphasized the sense of community and musical heritage that “Changes” represented, with performers spanning “six generations of rock musicians.”
He went on to thank the Osbourne family — Sharon, Jack, Kelly and Aimee — for the opportunity to perform and celebrate Ozzy’s legacy. Yungblud also dedicated the award to the everyday musicians who inspired him, from guitar shop beginnings to dreamers playing in bedrooms: “Rock music is coming back. Watch out pop music, we’re gonna f—ing get ya,” he declared, underscoring his belief in rock’s enduring energy.
The singer recalled a poignant moment with Ozzy before his passing, noting that the Prince of Darkness once asked him if there was anything he could do for him. Yungblud said his answer then — “the music was enough” — still stands and that Osbourne’s presence will stay with him “every time I’m nervous and onstage at every show.” He closed with a stirring salute: “God bless rock music, and god bless f—ing Ozzy Osbourne!”
Yungblud’s Grammy win marks his first career Grammy Award, and his performance of “Changes” served not just as a tribute but as a statement about rock music’s ongoing relevance. His success at this year’s ceremony — including multiple nominations — highlights how the genre continues to resonate with both new and longtime fans.
