The Darkness guitarist Dan Hawkins has publicly criticized Steven Tyler and Yungblud’s tribute performance to Ozzy Osbourne at the MTV Video Music Awards. He shared his harsh assessment on Instagram.
Hawkins expressed strong disapproval of the tribute performance. Tyler and Yungblud performed Ozzy Osbourne’s songs during the ceremony.
“Another nail in the coffin of rock n roll,” Hawkins said. “Cynical, nauseating and more importantly; shit.”
The guitarist continued his criticism by questioning the motives behind such performances.
“Makes me sick how people jump on this shit to further their own careers,” he added.
Hawkins shared a video of the performance while voicing his concerns that the artists were exploiting Ozzy’s situation for personal gain. His criticism may also be directed toward MTV’s role in organizing such tribute performances.
The controversial tribute performance took place during the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards ceremony. It featured a star-studded lineup that extended beyond Tyler and Yungblud.
Louder Sound reported that the tribute included Aerosmith’s Joe Perry and Extreme’s Nuno Bettencourt. They joined Tyler and Yungblud for a medley of Ozzy’s classic hits. The performance featured iconic songs including “Crazy Train,” “Changes,” and “Mama, I’m Coming Home” at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York.
The tribute began with a heartfelt video message from Ozzy’s son, Jack Osbourne. He addressed the audience before the performance. YouTube footage showed Jack saying, “I know for sure it would make him incredibly happy to see these great musicians carry on his legacy.” Ozzy’s grandchildren then echoed his signature call to action.
For Yungblud, the tribute held special significance as he has previously described Ozzy as his “North Star” and a symbol of individualism. However, Hawkins’ criticism suggests that such personal connections may not justify what he perceives as career opportunism during a tribute performance.
The event reached a wide audience. Multiple sources confirmed it aired live on MTV, CBS, and Paramount+ in the United States. This amplified both the tribute’s reach and the subsequent controversy surrounding Hawkins’ public criticism.
