The MTV Video Music Awards have long been known as a stage for unforgettable performances, but the 2025 edition is already shaping up to be historic. This year, an all-star lineup featuring Yungblud, Aerosmith legends Steven Tyler and Joe Perry, and guitar virtuoso Nuno Bettencourt is set to deliver a one-of-a-kind tribute to the Prince of Darkness himself: Ozzy Osbourne.
What begins as a powerhouse collaboration is destined to transform into something far greater—a heartfelt celebration of Ozzy’s enduring influence, his revolutionary contributions to rock and metal, and the personal impact he’s had on millions of fans and fellow musicians around the world.
Adding even more emotional weight to the night, Ozzy’s own family will be present to witness the tribute, turning the performance into both a public celebration and an intimate, deeply personal one. As anticipation builds, fans everywhere are asking the same question: Which iconic song will they play to honor the godfather of heavy metal?
A Tribute Long Overdue
Ozzy Osbourne is not just a musician—he’s a cultural force. From his groundbreaking work as the frontman of Black Sabbath, which gave birth to heavy metal as a genre, to his wild solo career filled with iconic anthems, Ozzy’s legacy spans over five decades.
His influence has transcended generations. The rebellious energy of “Crazy Train”, the haunting power of “War Pigs”, and the emotional resonance of “Mama, I’m Coming Home” remain staples not just for fans of rock and metal, but for anyone who has ever felt the pull of music that is raw, unapologetic, and deeply human.
Though tributes to Ozzy have taken place in the past, the 2025 MTV VMAs performance feels like a defining cultural moment. With the star-studded lineup of artists from different eras and genres, the tribute will bridge generations and highlight just how far-reaching Ozzy’s influence truly is.
The All-Star Lineup: A Meeting of Legends
Yungblud: The Modern Rebel
Few contemporary artists embody the same spirit of rebellion and raw emotion as Yungblud. Known for his unapologetic individuality and fearless artistry, Yungblud has often been hailed as a voice for misfits and outsiders—the same way Ozzy was in the 1970s.
Yungblud’s presence in this tribute is symbolic: it represents Ozzy’s influence on a new generation of rockers who refuse to be confined by labels or expectations. Fans can expect him to bring unfiltered passion, energy, and a modern edge to the performance.
Steven Tyler & Joe Perry: Aerosmith’s Power Duo
When it comes to legendary rock duos, Steven Tyler and Joe Perry are in a league of their own. Aerosmith’s frontman and lead guitarist have created some of the most enduring rock anthems in history, and their inclusion in this tribute adds weight, gravitas, and undeniable star power.
Tyler’s unmistakable voice and Perry’s masterful riffs will bring a touch of rock history to the VMAs stage. Together, they symbolize the shared lineage of rock’s great frontmen and guitar heroes who, like Ozzy, have defined an era.
Nuno Bettencourt: The Guitar Virtuoso
Known for his work with Extreme and as one of the most technically skilled guitarists in the world, Nuno Bettencourt adds virtuosity to the mix. His fiery solos and ability to blend emotion with technical precision make him the perfect choice to honor Ozzy’s guitar-heavy legacy.
Nuno has always spoken about the importance of classic rock and metal in shaping his artistry, so his inclusion in this performance is as much a personal tribute as it is a professional one.
A Family Affair: The Osbournes in the Spotlight
What makes this tribute even more poignant is that Ozzy’s family will be in the audience. Sharon, Kelly, and Jack Osbourne—who have stood by Ozzy through his triumphs and challenges—will witness the global celebration of their patriarch’s legacy.
For fans, the Osbournes are more than just a rock family; they are cultural icons who gave the world a rare, unfiltered glimpse into the life of a rock legend through their groundbreaking reality show in the early 2000s. Their presence at the VMAs will turn the performance into an intensely emotional moment, blending public admiration with private family pride.
Which Song Will They Play?
Perhaps the most exciting question surrounding the tribute is: which song (or songs) will this all-star lineup choose to perform?
Several contenders immediately come to mind:
- “Crazy Train”: Arguably Ozzy’s most recognizable solo track, it would be an explosive way to showcase each performer’s energy.
- “Paranoid”: A Black Sabbath classic that defined heavy metal—perfect for a multi-generational performance.
- “Mama, I’m Coming Home”: A ballad that would tug at the heartstrings and honor Ozzy’s softer, more emotional side.
- “War Pigs”: A politically charged anthem that remains as relevant today as it was in the 1970s.
Whatever the choice, fans can be sure the performance will balance both power and poignancy, delivering a fitting salute to the Prince of Darkness.
Why This Tribute Matters
In an age where music often feels disposable, the 2025 MTV VMAs tribute is a reminder of the power of legacy. Ozzy Osbourne didn’t just make music—he created a movement, a lifestyle, and a soundtrack for rebellion.
The artists chosen to honor him represent different facets of his influence:
- Yungblud, carrying Ozzy’s rebellious flame into the modern era.
- Steven Tyler and Joe Perry, peers and icons who share the same legendary rock DNA.
- Nuno Bettencourt, representing the technical artistry of guitar-driven music.
This isn’t just a performance—it’s a statement about the timeless nature of Ozzy’s impact and the way music can unite generations.
The Buzz: Fans Can’t Wait
As soon as the tribute was announced, social media lit up with excitement. Fans are calling it the most anticipated moment of the VMAs, with many predicting it will go down as one of the greatest performances in the award show’s history.
Memes, speculation about the setlist, and heartfelt tributes from fans who grew up listening to Ozzy are flooding timelines. For many, this isn’t just an awards show—it’s a chance to collectively celebrate an artist who shaped the soundtracks of their lives.
Ozzy’s Enduring Influence
Even as he steps back from the stage due to health challenges, Ozzy’s influence remains ever-present. Younger artists continue to cite him as an inspiration, and his music still resonates with listeners who weren’t even alive during his early Black Sabbath years.
This tribute ensures that his story is not just remembered but actively passed down, celebrated, and reimagined for new audiences. It is proof that legends don’t fade—they evolve, adapt, and inspire.
Conclusion: A Night to Remember
When Yungblud, Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, and Nuno Bettencourt step onto the stage at the 2025 MTV VMAs, they won’t just be performing—they’ll be creating history. Their tribute to Ozzy Osbourne promises to be more than music; it will be a living, breathing testament to the Prince of Darkness’s enduring legacy.
With Ozzy’s family in attendance, fans around the world watching, and a lineup of artists who embody both past and present, this performance is destined to go down as one of the most emotional and unforgettable moments in MTV history.
So, as the countdown to the VMAs continues, one question keeps fans buzzing with anticipation: which iconic Ozzy anthem will echo through the night, uniting generations in a shared celebration of rock’s eternal spirit?
Whatever the choice, one thing is certain—the world will be watching, and Ozzy’s legacy will shine brighter than ever.
