What is the Black Sabbath bench? Birmingham saying goodbye to Ozzy Osbourne with a funeral procession

The Black Sabbath bench is a public art installation and a tribute to the eponymous British heavy metal band. It is located on Broad Street, above the bridge on Canal Street, in Birmingham. The bench was installed and opened to the public in 2019. Ever since its introduction, it has become a popular spot for Black Sabbath fans and tourists.

Black Sabbath's lead singer, Ozzy Osbourne, passed away on July 22, 2025, and the funeral service is scheduled on July 30. Birmingham is coming together one last time to honor the "Prince of Darkness" on the day of his funeral with a procession. The Black Sabbath bench and bridge will be a part of the funeral march.

Ozzy's body will be carried on a hearse while going through the city to his private funeral. The Mayor of Birmingham, Zafar Iqbal, said that the event was funded by the Osbourne family, giving the people of Birmingham one last chance to pay their respects before the funeral.

Why is the Black Sabbath bench an important part of the funeral procession?

The Black Sabbath bench is an important part of the funeral march for the late Black Sabbath lead singer because it is on the way to his private funeral. It is where fans and followers from all over the world have left their flowers, cards, tributes, and more. A live stream of the Black Sabbath bench will also be broadcast online for fans who cannot attend the event in person.

The funeral procession will begin at 12:00 GMT on July 30, 2025, down Broad Street. Attendees will see a tram that was named after Ozzy in 2016, parked near the Birmingham Library. There will also be musical performances from Birmingham-based Bostin' Brass Band and other local artists.

Traffic on Broad Street will be closed from 7:00 a.m. Fans who wish to attend the event are requested to arrive before the time to avoid any unnecessary hassle.

What do the people of Birmingham think of Ozzy Osbourne's funeral procession?

Many believe that Birmingham is the right place for Ozzy's last tribute, since it is his home.

Rachel Tomlinson, who is also from Birmingham, said that it is "where he should rightly be." She added:

"He was always proud to be a Brummie. He makes me proud to be a Brummie. It will be good to have him back one last time"

Luisa Huggins, who comes from the Westside Business Improvement District and owns the Black Sabbath bench, mentioned that it has been an important place for fans after Ozzy's passing. She said:

"It's just been a really positive thing to see people coming to Birmingham to take part in paying homage and honouring the legend who Ozzy Osbourne was. He was so proud to be from Birmingham and I think as fellow Brummies we were really proud to have him as one of our own as well."

The city of Birmingham is preparing to say goodbye to one of its "greatest legends," Ozzy Osbourne. The Black Sabbath bench stands as more than just a tribute. It has become a gathering place for grief, remembrance, and love.

×

Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback