Drummer Vinny Appice recently shared his thoughts about Ozzy Osbourne following the rock legend’s passing. He made comments that could potentially spark debate among fans in an interview with WIVB TV.
Appice’s tribute touched on both Osbourne’s vocal abilities and his memorable stage presence. He also recounted personal experiences from their time together with Black Sabbath.
“Well, he wasn’t known as the greatest rock singer, but he is a great singer, and his antics and his character, on stage, people loved him,” Appice said. “And you never know what was gonna happen when he’s on stage.”
The drummer then shared specific memories from their European tour together. He highlighted Osbourne’s unpredictable behavior.
“I played with him with Black Sabbath For a little bit in Europe and it was always something,” he continued. “First time I played [with him] — [in front of] 70, 80,000 people — and he threw a pail of water on me. The drums were all wet. And then he did it twice. I went, ‘Okay.’ I almost went on the next show with an umbrella.”
Appice revealed how the water-throwing incidents were eventually resolved through Sharon Osbourne’s intervention.
“But then at the hotel lobby, we were leaving the next morning, and [Ozzy’s wife and manager] Sharon Osbourne said, ‘How’s everything going, Vinny?’ I said, ‘It’s great, except he keeps throwing water on me.’ And she goes, ‘He did?’ That was the end of the water,” he explained. “So she wears the pants in the family.”
The drummer concluded his tribute with warm words about Osbourne’s character and legacy.
“But what a character. [He was a] great guy, sweetheart. Love him. And sad it turned out to be this, but what a sendoff,” Appice said.
The comments were made during discussions about upcoming tribute concerts honoring Osbourne’s legacy.
Appice’s reflections carry particular weight given his extensive history with Black Sabbath. His firsthand experience working with both Osbourne and the band during crucial periods of their career adds significance to his comments.
Columbus Calling reported that Appice originally joined Black Sabbath in 1980. He played on classic albums like *Mob Rules* (1981) and *Live Evil* (1983). His powerful drumming style became integral to the band’s sound during this era. This established him as a key figure in heavy metal history.
The drummer’s relationship with Sabbath extended beyond his initial tenure. Wikipedia documented that he later returned to the band for the *Dehumanizer* album and tour in 1992. During this period, he worked closely with both Osbourne and Ronnie James Dio. He also collaborated with them in separate projects, creating a complex web of professional relationships within the metal community.
Blabbermouth noted that Appice has remained an influential figure in heavy metal throughout his career. He often respects the legacy of his former bandmates while candidly recounting the band’s more turbulent moments. His willingness to share both positive and challenging experiences with Osbourne reflects the complex dynamics that existed within one of metal’s most legendary bands.
The drummer’s current tribute comments demonstrate his continued connection to the Sabbath legacy. This comes even as he acknowledges the unpredictable nature of working with Osbourne during their time together on the European circuit.
