The Beautiful Death of Ozzy Osbourne: How Metal Teaches Us to Live

In the run up to the anniversary of his death, acclaimed metal writer Keith Kahn-Harris presents a unique exploration of Ozzy Osbourne, metal, and the positive legacy his life and culture leaves for the rest of us. What is a 'good death'? How about this: After years of terrible health, you gather friends and admirers for one last, glorious party. A couple of weeks later, you slip away, surrounded by your loving family. And then, the world comes to mourn. That is how Birmingham’s Ozzy Osbourne died. By his death – at an age few would have ever believe he’d reach – Ozzy was much-loved, far beyond metal. Once a feared, demonic figure, his Back to the Beginning farewell concert at Villa Park raised $190 million, the highest-grossing charity concert ever. In concise, arresting chapters interspersed with black and white photos and named after the fundamentals of life and metal (Death, Love, Bodies, Hate, Politics, Voice and more), Kahn-Harris explores how Ozzy, of all people, attracted such generosity of spirit. The answer, he finds, is deeply embedded within the story and culture of metal – and has lessons for us all.