Ozzy Osbourne will be honored during the October 19th Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony with a speech by Jack Black and an all-star musical tribute featuring Tool singer Maynard James Keenan other rock luminaries.
It marks Ozzy’s second induction to the Rock Hall after going in as a member of Black Sabbath in 2006. This time, his induction honors his career outside of Sabbath, with the ceremony featuring a tribute to Ozzy’s legendary solo work. The event will be televised live on Disney+, with a later broadcast on ABC.
As for the musical tribute, a star-studded cast of Keenan, Billy Idol, and Jelly Roll will sing songs from Ozzy’s solo career, backed by a band including bassist Rob Trujillo (who was in Ozzy’s band before he joined Metallica), Ozzy’s trusty axeman Zakk Wylde, Wolfgang Van Halen, Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith, Billy Idol guitarist Steve Stevens, and producer Andrew Watt.
“I don’t know what to think,” Osbourne told Rolling Stone via email. “I’m still in shock that I’m getting inducted for a second time. But at the same time, I’m very excited.”
Jack Black has been tapped to deliver the speech inducting Ozzy, who called the actor and Tenacious D founder “one of the few great actors that is also a genuine rock & roller and not acting the part.”
“Jack invited my family to the School of Rock movie premiere in 2002,” Ozzy said. “I’ve always been a big fan of his.”
The Prince of Darkness personally acknowledged each singer in the email with Rolling Stone.
“Maynard has been a true family friend since 1997,” Ozzy wrote. “He is such a creative force. There are few artists who can keep three successful bands going for multiple decades,” referring to Tool, A Perfect Circle, and Puscifer.
Ozzy went on to say that “Billy Idol should be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame” and that he was excited to hear country singer Jelly Roll interpret his songs.
“Who doesn’t love Jelly Roll?” he added. “His voice is soulful, pure, and dirty. I’m so honored that someone would do this for me who I’ve never had the pleasure of meeting.”
Below you can see the Rock Hall’s Instagram post announcing the musical tribute.