Steven Tyler’s daughter Mia Tyler has defended musician Yungblud against criticism following his performance alongside the Aerosmith frontman. She shared her thoughts in a statement posted on Instagram.
Tyler’s statement addressed the backlash Yungblud received after performing with her father. She emphasized the evolving nature of rock music and defended the young artist’s authenticity.
“In my own rock n roll mom opinion… Rock and roll has always been about rebellion, truth, and breaking down walls. Every generation has its voice, musicians who dare to belt out the things others are afraid to say,” Tyler said. “We’re in an odd place in life right now where our musical hero’s are dying, retiring or just not being available the way they used to be anymore. We’re used to things being a certain way. We’re used to what’s familiar. But we can’t be so stubborn to the future of rock and roll because we want the past to be the present.”
Tyler continued her defense by highlighting what she saw as the true spirit of rock music.
“People try to tear down what they don’t understand, but let’s be clear: music is not meant to fit neatly inside someone else’s idea of ‘acceptable.’ Rock was born to rattle cages, stir emotions, and challenge the status quo,” she said. “My dad and Aerosmith embodied that spirit for decades. Leading the path for young new artists like Yungblud to carry it forward.”
She praised Yungblud’s performance alongside her father. She described it as authentic and fearless.
“When Yungblud stepped on stage beside my father, one of the greatest frontmen and rock legends of all time, he didn’t try to imitate, compete, or shrink himself. Instead, he did what real authentic artists do, he showed up as himself,” Tyler explained. “He poured out his raw energy, his unfiltered emotion, and fearless individuality in his own unapologetic way. Performing alongside a legend didn’t intimidate him, it elevated him. That moment was about celebrating Ozzy Osbourne’s life and legacy.”
Tyler directly addressed critics of the performance.
“To anyone with something negative to say: SHAME ON YOU! You’ve missed the point of art. Music is expression, not conformity. Rock is chaos, freedom, and honesty. Yungblud embodies all of that!” she said. “He doesn’t just sing songs, he ignites a movement for young people who feel unseen, unheard, or misunderstood. When he sang along side my dad, he didn’t just share a stage with a rock icon, he proved that rock and roll is alive, evolving and in good hands. He’s the voice of a new generation of rock and roll.”
She concluded by sharing a personal moment with her son about the performance.
“And you are a douche canoe if you have anything negative to say about that incredible performance honoring the Prince Of Darkness. When my Son and I were watching my dad’s performance at the VMA’s, I told Axe, ‘look at that kids charisma. Look how he stands up there with Papa, the king of charisma, and still shines. That kids a true rockstar. He’s got grit. You can be just like that if you want to,'” Tyler said. “Axe smiled and agreed. And that’s the best thing we can ask for with this next generation.”
The controversy surrounding the performance highlights the ongoing debate about generational changes in rock music. It also shows the challenges of accepting new artists within established circles.
The Rock Revival reported that the tribute performance featured a supergroup including Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Nuno Bettencourt, and Yungblud performing some of Ozzy Osbourne’s biggest hits like “Crazy Train” and “Changes,” with contributions from Ozzy’s keyboardist Adam Wakeman. The event took place at UBS Arena, the very venue where Aerosmith played their final show before canceling the remainder of their Peace Out World Tour. The tour has since been officially retired.
The criticism wasn’t limited to social media comments. Idobi noted that veteran artists like The Darkness disparaged the tribute performance online. However, fans and close circles of the Osbourne family have defended Yungblud. They acknowledged his long-standing relationship with Ozzy and the genuinely heartfelt nature of the tribute.
Yungblud’s commitment to honoring Ozzy extended beyond the VMA performance. American Songwriter revealed that Yungblud postponed two shows on his current North American tour to pay proper tribute to Ozzy Osbourne. This emphasized his deep respect and personal connection to the Prince of Darkness.
“I have to do this… I have to honor him, and I hope you guys understand,” Yungblud told fans about his decision to prioritize the tribute performance.
Many observers believe Yungblud’s fearless stage presence and authenticity signify that “a torch has been passed” in rock music. This represents a new generation ready to carry forward the rebellious spirit that has defined the genre for decades.
