Charleston, July 26, 2025
News Summary
The music world remembers Ozzy Osbourne, who passed away at 76. His chaotic concert with Black Sabbath in Charleston on August 24, 1972, remains a pivotal moment in local music history. Fans recall the excitement and subsequent chaos as Osbourne abruptly ended the show, igniting frustration that escalated to a near riot. Despite his health struggles, Ozzy continued to impact music, culminating in a final charity concert in 2025. His legacy is marked by unforgettable performances and shocking onstage moments.
Charleston, South Carolina – The music world mourns the loss of Ozzy Osbourne, who passed away at the age of 76 on July 22, 2025. As fans reflect on his legendary career, one significant moment stands out: his chaotic concert at Charleston County Hall on August 24, 1972, with the iconic band Black Sabbath.
At the time, Charleston County Hall, previously home to famous acts such as Elvis Presley, Alice Cooper, and ZZ Top, served as one of the few concert venues on King Street before the construction of the Gaillard Center. The opening act for Black Sabbath was a band called Gentle Giant, whose performance, however, was described as “quick and uneventful.”
Excitement among attendees was tangible as they anticipated the arrival of Black Sabbath. Stevie Chase, who was a freshman that year and had recently purchased Black Sabbath’s “Master of Reality,” remembered the thrill of driving down King Street with friends. They were looking forward to an unforgettable performance, although what transpired would soon turn chaotic.
Black Sabbath took the stage, launching into a crowd-pleasing set that commenced with the song “Sweet Leaf,” followed by another unidentified piece, and the fan-favorite, “War Pigs.” However, the band’s performance was abruptly cut short when Osbourne threw the microphone stand over the drummer’s head and left the stage. This unexpected incident led to an uproar among the audience, who had eagerly anticipated the full concert experience.
Reports from attendees, including David Shorter, reveal that while some speculated about Osbourne’s performance, there was nothing wrong with his voice. Instead, many noted his dissatisfaction with the half-empty venue and poor conditions as influential factors in the chaotic conclusion of the concert.
The abrupt end of the show triggered a near riot, as frustrated fans called for refunds, which were not honored. Police were summoned to restore order as angry concertgoers started throwing beer bottles, causing damage, including breaking the glass window of a ticket kiosk. In the aftermath, some expressed humor about the situation, claiming that Osbourne still owed them $5 from the ticket price. A local radio station ensured parents that the police had everything under control following the concert.
This event has remained a notable moment in Charleston’s music history, symbolizing the unpredictable nature of live performances. Years later, Osbourne continued to leave his mark as “The Prince of Darkness,” known for shocking onstage moments, including an infamous bat-biting incident in 1982. Osbourne returned to Charleston County Hall on February 20, 1983, during his Speak of the Devil tour, further solidifying his relationship with the city.
Despite his struggles with health issues, including a ±diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease and injuries from a fall in 2019, Osbourne persevered in his craft. His last concert took place on July 5, 2025, where he raised approximately $200 million for three charities, aiming to achieve the title of the highest-grossing charity concert ever.
The passing of Ozzy Osbourne has left a void in the music industry, evoking expressions of admiration and sorrow from many, including Riley Randall, a local musician. As fans reflect on his legacy, they remember not just the music but the unforgettable experiences surrounding his performances.
FAQ
What notable concert did Ozzy Osbourne perform in Charleston?
Ozzy Osbourne performed with Black Sabbath on August 24, 1972, at Charleston County Hall, ending in chaos after only a few songs were played.
What happened during the 1972 concert in Charleston?
The concert escalated into chaos when Osbourne threw the microphone stand and left the stage, leading to an uproar among attendees who demanded refunds.
When did Ozzy Osbourne pass away?
Ozzy Osbourne passed away on July 22, 2025, at the age of 76.
Key Features of Ozzy Osbourne’s Legacy
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Concert at Charleston County Hall | August 24, 1972, performance with Black Sabbath ended in chaos. |
| Health Struggles | Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and injuries from a fall. |
| Last Concert | July 5, 2025, raised approximately $200 million for charity. |
| Notable Incidents | Known for shocking onstage moments, including the famous bat-biting incident. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Ozzy Osbourne & Black Sabbath Show in Charleston
- Post and Courier: Ozzy Osbourne Death & Charleston SC Show
- Count on 2: 15 Concerts to See in Charleston This Spring
- Charleston City Paper: Blotter – Ozzy Osbourne Impersonator
- Billboard: Darius Rucker Launching Charleston Music Festival
- Wikipedia: Ozzy Osbourne
- Google Search: Ozzy Osbourne
- Google Scholar: Ozzy Osbourne
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ozzy Osbourne
- Google News: Ozzy Osbourne
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