METALLICA’s Robert Trujillo Remembers Ozzy Osbourne: “He Was the Gateway”

As the metal world continues to mourn the loss of Ozzy Osbourne, Metallica bassist Robert Trujillo has shared a heartfelt tribute ahead of attending the legendary frontman’s funeral.

Trujillo, who played in Ozzy’s solo band from 1996 to 2003 and later contributed to Patient Number 9, reflected on their friendship and the profound impact Ozzy had on his life—both personally and musically.

“Ozzy was the conduit for so many new relationships both creative collaborations and real, lasting friendships,” Trujillo wrote. “He was the gateway.”

Trujillo recalled how Ozzy championed his funk-metal side project Infectious Grooves, inviting them to tour in 1991—before the band was even ready to hit the road.

“He actually demanded we open for him on the ‘Theater of Madness’ tour,” Trujillo shared. “He’d say ‘I’m your best friend Rob, I fucking love the bass and the funkier and heavier the better!’”

He went on to remember the personal connections forged during that era—how Ozzy helped shape his life offstage, introducing him to lifelong friends like Joe Holmes and Mike Bordin, who would go on to become godfathers to his children.

Calling Ozzy “humble,” “honest,” and “absolutely amazing,” Trujillo praised the icon’s sharp humor and unmatched presence.

“Ozzy and Black Sabbath were and still are the soundtrack to our lives,” he added. “The inspiration they gave us is beyond words.”

Trujillo, along with his bandmates in Metallica, recently honored Ozzy one final time at the Back to the Beginning celebration in Birmingham, UK, performing alongside Black Sabbath in what would become Osbourne’s final live farewell. That performance took place just weeks before Ozzy’s passing on July 22nd.

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