A Deep Connection and a Lasting Legacy
Jim Simpson, the former manager of Black Sabbath, recently shared his thoughts on the passing of Ozzy Osbourne, expressing deep emotions about their long-standing relationship. Simpson, who was the first manager of the band from the start of their career in 1968 until 1970, attended the singer's funeral procession in Birmingham, England. He reflected on the years they were not in contact, emphasizing how much he missed Ozzy over the decades.
During the event, Simpson was greeted by fans and had a conversation with journalist Robson McCallister. One woman in the crowd, visibly emotional, told him, "I'm sorry for the loss of your friend." Simpson responded with a heartfelt statement, acknowledging the bond he had with Ozzy.
"It's a funny thing, Ozzy and I were very close," he said. "I have missed not being in contact with him for quite a few decades. I missed him and today is the full stop."
A Tribute to a Music Icon
Simpson also spoke about the impact Ozzy had on the music scene, especially in Birmingham. He mentioned that the event brought people together, reminding them of the significance of the city in rock and roll history. "It reminds people, I've seen people today who I haven't for 15 to 20 years. It reminds people of what the Birmingham music scene is all about. He's an icon and Birmingham is the UK symbol of rock and roll."
Ozzy Osbourne passed away on July 22 at the age of 76. His family released a statement expressing their grief: "It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning." They added, "He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time. Sharon, Jack, Kelly, Aimee and Louis."
A Personal Reflection
Jim Simpson, who continues to run Big Bear Music in his 80s, paid tribute to Ozzy, calling him "simply irreplaceable." He shared his personal memories of the singer, highlighting that his knowledge of Ozzy spans two-and-a-half years in the late 60s. "The last time I saw him he was with his two aunties. They'd say 'get me a tea John'. My knowledge of Ozzy spans two-and-a-half years in the late 60s - and he was just lovely."
Simpson emphasized that the stories often told about Ozzy are not entirely accurate. "All these things you read about Ozzy are totally alien to me. All the things I know about Ozzy is that he was very sensitive, he was good to be with and wasn't wild."
A Dignified Farewell
Today, Ozzy's funeral began with a procession that saw fans lining Birmingham's famous Broad Street as his coffin passed by. The event featured a live brass ensemble, Bostin' Brass, playing while his family members followed behind. The Osbourne family funded the ceremonial tribute, allowing fans around the globe to watch via a live stream.
Birmingham's Lord Mayor, Councillor Zafar Iqbal MBE, JP, highlighted the significance of the event, stating, "Ozzy was more than a music legend - he was a son of Birmingham." He noted that the city was proud to host the tribute, which took place in the place where it all began.
A City in Mourning
Fans have been leaving tributes to Ozzy at various spots around the city, which is synonymous with the singer and his band, Black Sabbath. Ozzy, known as The Prince of Darkness, performed his final ever show with Black Sabbath on July 5 at Birmingham's Villa Park. He appeared sitting in a chair alongside original members Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward for the Back To The Beginning event, which was their first joint appearance in 20 years.
