Tom Morello recently shared a humorous story about his final conversation with Ozzy Osbourne. He recounted the memorable exchange in an interview with Pryor Creek Music Festivals.
The Rage Against the Machine guitarist described the touching yet comedic moment that occurred at an afterparty following what would be their last meeting.
“This is the last time I saw Ozzy. The day is done. It’s been great and people have been working on the show for a very long time and we’re all hugging and crying,” Morello recalled. “So we go to the afterparty and finally it’s mellow. I’m playing pinball with my son.”
The guitarist explained how the encounter unfolded when he was interrupted during his game.
“And somebody taps me on the shoulder and I’m in the middle of a multi-ball and I’m like, ‘Get off me.’ And it’s Jack Osbourne because his dad wants to say hi,” he continued. “So I finish my game and it’s like, ‘Ozzy would like to say something’ and I’m like, ‘Oh my gosh.’ First of all, Ozzy comes to the afterparty, which is crazy right?”
Morello then described the heartfelt moment that took an unexpectedly humorous turn.
“And so, I got to one last time kiss his head, tell him I love him, thank him for a lifetime of music and his reply was, ‘Could you find Sharon, I want to get the f*ck out of here,'” Morello said. “That’s the perfect coda to the day.”
This touching yet comedic exchange took place following what would become a historic moment in heavy metal history. It marked the end of an era for both musicians.
The conversation occurred after Ozzy Osbourne’s final concert, “Back to the Beginning,” held in Birmingham in July 2025. American Songwriter reported that Morello served as the musical director for this monumental farewell show. The event aimed to make it the greatest day in heavy metal history.
Morello’s surprise at seeing Ozzy at the afterparty reflects the rarity of such appearances by the metal legend. Loudwire noted that Ozzy’s presence at the afterparty was unexpected. This underscored the significance of their final exchange, making the moment even more memorable for the guitarist.
The collaboration between Morello and Ozzy represents just one facet of the Rage Against the Machine guitarist’s ongoing involvement in the metal community. Louder Sound revealed that Morello is currently co-directing a documentary on British heavy metal legends Judas Priest. This demonstrates his continued engagement with the genre beyond his work with Ozzy.
The story captures the essence of both musicians. It shows Morello’s reverence for his musical heroes and Ozzy’s characteristic blend of warmth and irreverence that has endeared him to fans for decades. Despite the emotional weight of their final meeting, Ozzy’s practical desire to leave with Sharon provided the perfect punctuation to their relationship.
