Which Black Sabbath lead singer and 'godfather of heavy metal' died on July 22, 2025?

John Michael "Ozzy" Osbourne, the iconic frontman of Black Sabbath, is indeed the figure referenced. Widely recognized as the "Prince of Darkness" and a pioneering force behind heavy metal music, Osbourne's influence spans decades. He co-founded Black Sabbath in 1968, and his distinctive vocals and stage presence were central to the band's groundbreaking sound throughout the 1970s, contributing to seminal albums like "Black Sabbath" and "Paranoid".

Even after his departure from Black Sabbath in 1979, Osbourne embarked on a highly successful solo career, further cementing his status as a rock legend. He released numerous multi-platinum albums and continued to tour extensively, solidifying his reputation as the "godfather of heavy metal". His career was also marked by a later resurgence in mainstream popularity through reality television.

Osbourne's legacy is immense, having sold over 100 million albums both with Black Sabbath and as a solo artist. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice, once with Black Sabbath in 2006 and again as a solo artist in 2024, a testament to his enduring impact on music. His contributions helped define the heavy metal genre and inspired countless bands and musicians globally.