Drake paid a heartfelt tribute to heavy metal icon Ozzy Osbourne this week, showing up unannounced at the Black Sabbath Bench in Birmingham, England, following Osbourne’s death on Tuesday, July 23.
As fans gathered to leave flowers, handwritten notes, and memorabilia honoring the legendary Black Sabbath frontman, the Grammy-winning rapper made a surprise appearance. According to The New York Times, Drake poured tequila onto the pavement beside the iconic bench in a quiet, symbolic salute. “I just came out to pay respects to someone who lived it to the fullest,” he told the outlet.
Drake referred to Osbourne as a “cultural touchstone,” noting that even those who didn’t grow up on metal felt Ozzy’s influence. Later, he posted — and swiftly deleted — a photo of the bench surrounded by tributes, captioned: “Drank with the NY Times last night for Ozzy.”
Osbourne passed away at age 76 after a long battle with Parkinson’s and other health issues. His family shared that he was surrounded by love in his final moments.
Drake, currently on his $ome $pecial $hows 4 UK Tour, will next perform in Manchester and Amsterdam, carrying Osbourne’s rebellious spirit with him across the stage.