Yungblud is set to headline a star-studded tribute to rock legend Ozzy Osbourne at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, joining forces with rock icons Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith, alongside guitar virtuoso Nuno Bettencourt from Extreme.
The highly anticipated performance will take place at UBS Arena in Long Island, New York, during the ceremony scheduled for Sunday night, September 7, 2025.
The tribute aims to celebrate Osbourne’s enduring legacy across multiple generations of rock music, with Yungblud serving as the bridge between contemporary audiences and classic rock’s storied history.
The genre-bending British artist, known for his energetic performances, was specifically chosen for his vocal admiration of Osbourne’s influence on his own musical journey.
Designed as one of the evening’s centerpiece moments, the performance will feature a carefully curated medley of Osbourne’s greatest hits, spanning his groundbreaking career.
The musical arrangement will blend traditional rock instrumentation with modern elements, showcasing the timeless quality of Osbourne’s work while providing a fresh interpretation.
“This collaboration represents the continuing thread of rock’s evolution,” noted industry observers, pointing to how the performance brings together artists from different eras who share Osbourne’s rebellious spirit.
The production will utilize dynamic lighting and stage design to create an authentic rock concert atmosphere within the awards show format.
Global viewers can tune in to the broadcast live on MTV and Comedy Central, with UK audiences able to watch at 9 pm BST on September 8, 2025.
Social media promotion is already building anticipation for what promises to be a highlight of the ceremony.
The tribute underscores Osbourne’s monumental contributions to heavy metal and rock music, with Yungblud publicly stating his intention to “honor the legacy properly and make Ozzy proud.”
This performance marks a significant cultural moment within the 2025 MTV VMAs, celebrating how Osbourne’s influence continues to resonate across musical generations and genres.
Yungblud’s emotional connection to the tribute runs deep, as he previously vowed to cover Ozzy’s song “Changes” at every show for the rest of his life following the rock legend’s passing.
Fans have enthusiastically responded to the announcement with overwhelming support on social media, many emphasizing how Yungblud’s passion will make this tribute truly authentic.
Beyond the televised performance, organizers plan to release footage for sync licensing opportunities, creating an additional revenue stream for the participating artists while extending the tribute’s reach.
Organizers have launched pre-save campaigns for a commemorative live album that will capture the once-in-a-lifetime performance, allowing fans to access the recording as soon as it becomes available.
