The 68th Annual GRAMMY Awards are set to deliver a high-octane farewell to the late Ozzy Osbourne, who passed away in July 2025. This heavy-hitting ensemble brings together musicians who were not just peers but close collaborators during the final chapters of the icon’s career. Taking place at the Crypto Arena on February 1, the performance aims to celebrate a pioneer who bridged the gap between terrifying heavy metal and global pop-culture stardom.
A Supergroup Formed in the Name of Heavy Metal
This specific lineup represents the inner circle of Ozzy’s modern era, particularly the team behind his acclaimed final studio works. Producer and guitarist Andrew Watt, who revitalized Osbourne’s sound in his later years, will lead the charge alongside the thunderous rhythm section of Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Chad Smith and Guns N’ Roses bassist Duff McKagan. These artists formed the backbone of the “Ordinary Man” and “Patient Number 9” sessions, ensuring the tribute carries the authentic DNA of Ozzy’s recent creative peak.
Slash joins the fray to provide the signature blistering solos that defined so much of the hard rock landscape Ozzy helped build. Having appeared on multiple tracks for the legend over the decades, the top-hatted virtuoso remains the perfect choice to channel the energy of the many great guitarists who once stood at the Ozzman’s side. His presence guarantees that the instrumental portion of the evening will possess the grit and technical mastery required to honor a Black Sabbath founder.
Post Malone rounds out the group as a poignant reminder of the singer’s ability to transcend genre boundaries and connect with younger generations. Their 2019 collaboration “Take What You Want” sparked a genuine friendship and introduced the heavy metal titan to a whole new legion of listeners. By blending Malone’s melodic sensibilities with the raw power of the rock veterans, the Recording Academy is poised to deliver a multi-generational salute to a man who truly never retired from the spotlight.