In the days following the death of legendary Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne, a wave of tributes has continued to pour in from across the music world. Among them is drummer Zak Starkey — known for his work with The Who, Oasis, and Mantra of the Cosmos — who shared a personal and previously unrevealed story involving the iconic metal band. Starkey revealed that he was once invited to join Black Sabbath for their 2013 reunion activities, including the recording of their final studio album 13 and several major live shows.
In the screenshot shared by Starkey, fans got a look at an email from none other than Sharon Osbourne, Ozzy‘s wife and longtime manager. Dated ahead of the band’s 2013 tour plans, the message invited Starkey to join the group for key performances and studio sessions.
“Zak, Black Sabbath is headlining Download on June 10 and then Lollapalooza in August,” Sharon wrote. “The guys need a drummer for their album, which will be recorded in September with Rick Rubin producing. We would probably need you for 2-3 weeks for the album. Also, they need a drummer to play at Lollapalooza which is on August 3 in Chicago.”
Sharon closed the email with a bit of humor, writing: “Also, Ozzy wants to have sex with you while he is singing ‘Iron Man’. Big Kiss, Sharon.”
Despite the once-in-a-lifetime offer, Starkey had to decline. At the time, he was fully committed to ongoing work with The Who, including performing during the closing ceremony of the 2012 Summer Olympics, the high-profile Concert For Sandy Relief event, and the band’s extensive Quadrophenia and More tour, which ran through 2012 and 2013.
“I’ve had a few regrets – this is one – (not the sex part!),” Starkey joked in the caption of his post. “Ozzy will always be one of the greatest, natural, brilliant singers of all time. I send much love and strength to his family at this sad sad time. If u aren’t familiar with the Never Say Die record – get into it – it’s so far out.”
After Starkey passed on the role, Black Sabbath brought in Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave drummer Brad Wilk to record the 13 album with Rick Rubin at the helm. For live performances on that tour, the band turned to Tommy Clufetos, who had previously drummed for Ozzy‘s solo band.
The story adds another layer of context around the absence of founding Black Sabbath drummer Bill Ward, who had been expected to rejoin the band for the 13 era. Ward ultimately did not participate due to long-standing disputes over contractual terms and personal grievances, which left the door open for alternate players. His absence was deeply felt by longtime fans, and it remained a sore point among those who had hoped to see the original Black Sabbath lineup together one last time.
Enter your information below to get a daily update with all of our headlines and receive The Orchard Metal newsletter.
