Rock star Ozzy Osbourne died on July 22, 2025. He was probably one of the most popular rock musicians of his era. Leader of Black Sabbath, his solo career as “The Prince of Darkness,” and a hugely popular reality television show on MTV cemented his fame. After the news came out, many of us were wondering when local Black Sabbath tribute band, BlackDaze would get a chance to do their show, here. Thankfully, the wait wasn’t long. On Saturday August 2, BlackDaze performed that show before a large, adoring crowd at the Blue Grotto.

BlackDaze consists of drummer/vocalist Richard Graham, Todd Flodstrom guitar, Darren Jones on bass and Russell Graham performing the part of Ozzy Osbourne. The sets were amazing with plenty of solos for all these talented musicians. Russell Graham triumphantly strutted the stage, bringing to mind a young Ozzy Osbourne.

The large adoring crowd, danced, cheered and sang along to the many hits that Osbourne was associated with. It was not a sad wake for The Prince of Darkness, but a good, old-fashioned rock ‘n’ roll party. Maybe a tear or two was shed when BlackDaze played “Momma (I’m Coming Home).” But that was very appropriate and the party resumed.

With a 30 song set list BlackDaze put a lot of work into this night. Depending on your age, your choice of favourite Ozzy songs might differ, due to the longetivity of Osbourne’s careet. They played my favourites including “God is Dead,” “Momma,” “Crazy Train,” “Paranoid,” “Bark at the Moon,” “Iron Man,” “War Pigs” … guess I like them all.

When the show ended the exuberant Grotto audience faded off into the night. The BlackDaze show made them feel like they were part of an important milestone in rock history. Not many bands can do that!