By Nicholas Kobe, Contributor

[Photo courtesy of cnn.com]

On February 1, 2023, heavy metal legend Ozzy Osbounre announced his retirement from touring, canceling the remainder of his dates scheduled for 2023. 

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Earlier in 2022, Ozzy underwent surgery to realign pins in his neck and back. Ozzy reported that recovery was going slowly but smoothly. Today, however, the “Prince of Darkness” announced his retirement via a statement on social media citing his spinal injury as the reason he is no longer able to perform. 

The former Black Sabbath frontman stated “My singing voice is fine. However, after three operations, stem cell treatment, endless physical therapy sessions and most recently, groundbreaking Cybernetics (HAL) Treatment, my body is still physically weak”. He expressed his dismay at having to give up touring, calling this “one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to share with my loyal fans.” 

Ozzy claims to be in the process of trying to determine ways for him to perform in ways that don’t require him to travel physically. He concluded his statement thanking his friends, family and fans for “giving me the life I never ever dreamed I would have.” Ozzy Osbourne’s last performance consisted of “Crazy Train” and “Patient Number 9” at the first NFL game of the 2022 season. 
In September 2022, Ozzy released his thirteenth studio album, Patient Number 9, which included collaborations with Eric Clapton, Tony Iommi and the late Jeff Beck and Taylor Hawkins. The album and its singles have netted Ozzy four Grammy nominations. Ozzy was scheduled to resume his “No More Tours II” tour, which has been long delayed due to COVID-19 and other health issues. He was to complete the final leg of the tour in the UK, with Judas Priest in May and June of 2023, before the announcement of his retirement.

Listen to Patient Number 9 below.