Yungblud was one of several artists who paid tribute to Ozzy Osbourne at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards in a star-studded performance with Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, and Extreme’s Nuno Bettencourt. They performed a medley of Ozzy classics like “Crazy Train,” “Mama I’m Coming Home,” and “Changes.” However, not everyone was impressed by Yungblud’s vocal choices or stage presence. Prominent among the critics was Dan Hawkins of The Darkness, who called Yungblud’s performance “another nail in the coffin for rock’n’roll,” further describing it as “cynical, nauseating, and more importantly, shit.”
In response, Yungblud didn’t back down. On Jack Osbourne’s podcast, he argued that many critics lash out not because they disagree, but because they are trying to inject themselves into a conversation they weren’t part of. He said,
“You ain’t ever going to see fucking James Hetfield slag off a young rock star. Because he’s James fucking Hetfield … [Critics] are trying to insert themselves into the conversation to obtain some kind of relevancy on the back of us honoring one of the greatest rock stars that ever lived.”
He added that these critics are “bitter and jealous” and accused them of replicating behaviors they accuse younger artists of having.
Jack Osbourne, visibly emotional during the podcast, defended Yungblud, saying many had misunderstood his connection to Ozzy and how deep that bond was with the Osbourne family. He revealed that earlier that night, he had texted Yungblud: “Fucking crush it.” Osbourne said, “All I was trying to do was my best for your old man because he gave me such a gift.”
Looking ahead, Yungblud recently announced his 2026 North American tour, which begins May 1 in Sterling Heights, Michigan. The tour is expected to feature new music alongside performances of earlier hits and tributes.
In the end, this wasn’t just about a performance. It was about legacy, respect, and the courage to stand by your choices — especially when the critics are waiting in the wings.
