Ozzy Osbourne and Argentina: a story of madness, pogo, and farewells

Ozzy Osbourne died at 76 years old, but in Argentina his spirit was forever etched. More than a heavy metal icon, he was a phenomenon of emotional connection with an audience that idolized him from the first mosh pit to his final farewell.

The news of his passing triggered a wave of tributes. Argentine musicians such as Fito Páez and Ricardo Mollo shared memories, while fans relived his shows, his quotes, and that special bond with the local audience.

The debut that changed everything

Although Black Sabbath set foot in Argentina in 1992 and 1994, Ozzy was not part of those visits. Not until 1995, during the Monsters of Rock at Estadio Ferro, did the "Prince of Darkness" unleash a frenzy with an explosive set alongside Megadeth, Alice Cooper, and Faith No More.

Two days later, he performed a show at Obras Sanitarias where he combined solo classics with anthems like "Paranoid" and "War Pigs." The audience's response was so visceral that it marked a turning point in his relationship with Argentina.

In an interview with Mario Pergolini for Telefe, Ozzy said it without a filter:  "Argentines go absolutely crazy. I love it when they jump. They make my heart race." Then, he added "They're feverish. I love playing in Argentina."

Epic shows, real trains, and farewells

In 2011, Ozzy returned to the country with his Scream Tour. The show, originally planned at Racing but moved to Estadio GEBA, was a burst of pure energy. He filled the stage with foam, wielded a hose, opened with "Bark at the Moon," and, as if the universe conspired in his favor, a train passed by just as "Crazy Train" was playing.

Two years later, in 2013, he returned as the leader of the original Black Sabbath line-up. The concert at Estadio Único de La Plata was historic: they presented the album 13, but the heart of the setlist was in classics like "Iron Man" and "Children of the Grave."

The definitive farewell arrived in 2016 with the The End Tour, which included stops in Córdoba and Buenos Aires. Estadio Vélez witnessed a night of communion and tears. Ozzy, visibly moved, gave himself completely.

His last visit was in 2018 with the No More Tours II tour, at 69 years old. With physical problems but an undiminished presence, he delivered his final show at Obras Outdoors before more than 10,000 people. It was his definitive farewell to Argentina, but not to the affection of the audience.

An eternal legacy for Argentine fans

After his death, social media was filled with tributes. Mario Pergolini posted a photo and wrote: "Ozzy... Thank you. Seriously. Thank you. R.I.P." Fito Páez chose an image and a brief message:  "Bye Ozzy. Love you. And thank you for this album. RIP"

Beyond the albums and the excesses, Ozzy was that: a human connection. With Argentina he experienced something unrepeatable. Those who saw him live know that, as long as "Paranoid" played or he waved the foam hose, hell itself danced with us.