Rob Halford Reflects on Ozzy Osbourne’s Joy Over Their Final Collaboration
Rob Halford, the legendary voice behind Judas Priest, shared a touching revelation about the late Ozzy Osbourne’s reaction to their last collaborative effort. The track, a charity version of Black Sabbath’s “War Pigs,” was imbued with special meaning as it was one of the final pieces Osbourne delighted in before his passing.
“Ozzy was absolutely thrilled and delighted,” Halford recounted. “Sharon sent us a note expressing how happy the music made him, how he grinned from ear to ear hearing it.” This moment, preserved in the echoes of Osbourne’s legacy, underscores the profound connection between the two metal icons.
The collaboration was not just a musical reunion but also a charitable endeavor. Released digitally on September 26, proceeds from “War Pigs (Charity Version)” support the Glenn Tipton Parkinson’s Foundation and the Cure Parkinson’s, a cause close to the Osbournes’ hearts. A physical CD release was scheduled to follow, broadening the impact of this poignant project.
Judas Priest’s connection with the song runs deep, often playing it before concerts to set a rousing tone. “It’s a rallying cry for metalheads,” said Halford. “It preps them for what’s to come.” This rendition added a distinct Judas Priest flavor while respecting the original’s powerful essence, a delicate balance achieved with finesse under producer Andy Sneap’s guidance.
Integrating Osbourne’s vocals from an earlier Black Sabbath recording presented a unique challenge, but the result was electric. Halford mused on the synergy between their voices, “It’s almost as if there’s something in the water–or the beer–in Birmingham that brought our voices so close in timbre.”
However, the emotional weight of the collaboration became more profound following Osbourne’s death on July 22, just a few weeks after his last performance in Birmingham. “The first few times, I couldn’t listen to the song in full without stopping,” Halford admitted, highlighting the personal impact of losing a friend and fellow musician.
In tribute to Osbourne, Judas Priest continues to honor him during performances, ensuring his spirit resonates with fans old and new. As they tour with artists like Alice Cooper and Corrosion of Conformity, they carry forward the legacy of metal giants who’ve shaped the genre.
Looking ahead, Halford hinted at potential new projects, including a 20th studio album following the success of their last release, which topped charts and marked a high point in their storied career.
The journey of “War Pigs (Charity Version)” from conception to release captures the enduring bond and mutual respect between Judas Priest and Ozzy Osbourne, a testament to their shared history and the power of music to convey deep emotional landscapes.