Yungblud has won the 2026 GRAMMY Award for Best Rock Performance for his live cover of BLACK SABBATH’s “Changes,” a performance recorded last July at Villa Park in Birmingham, United Kingdom. The rendition was captured during Ozzy Osbourne’s final concert, “Back To The Beginning,” marking a significant moment in the legendary singer’s farewell.
Originally released on BLACK SABBATH’s fourth studio album, Vol. 4 (1972), “Changes” has long stood as one of the band’s most emotional compositions. Yungblud’s interpretation served as a tribute to Osbourne and was supported by a notable group of musicians, including ANTHRAX bassist Frank Bello, EXTREME guitarist Nuno Bettencourt, SLEEP TOKEN drummer II, and Adam Wakeman, who has worked extensively with both Ozzy Osbourne and BLACK SABBATH.
During his acceptance speech, Yungblud reflected on the unexpected nature of the win and the personal meaning behind the performance.
“You do not expect to be up here and then you f**king are, so it’s wild,” he said. “To grow up loving an idol who helps figure out your identity, not only as a musician but as a man, is something I’m truly grateful for,” he added. “But then to form a relationship with them and honor them at their final show…we’re finding it so strange to comprehend.”
He went on to thank the Osbourne family and emphasized the broader significance of the moment for the rock community.
“Six generations of rock musicians [who] came together in the name of our genre, in the name of SABBATH and in the name of Ozzy Osbourne.
“I deeply love this genre. It’s all I’ve ever known,” he continued.
Yungblud also dedicated the award to aspiring musicians and expressed confidence in the future of rock music.
“We want to dedicate this, and I want to dedicate this, to everyone in the guitar shop I grew up in and everyone in a guitar shop or a bedroom with a dream. Rock music’s f**king coming back. Watch out, pop music, we’re gonna f**king get you.”
Closing his remarks, he shared a final memory of Osbourne that underscored the emotional weight of the performance.
“The last time I saw Ozzy Osbourne, you asked me if there’s anything you could do for me. I answered the music was enough, and I can safely say on behalf of all of us that still stands now and it will do forever. You’ll be with me every time I’m nervous and on stage at every show.
“God bless rock music and god bless f**king Ozzy Osbourne.”
Following the announcement of the GRAMMY nomination, Sharon Osbourne publicly congratulated Yungblud, writing: “I’m so proud of you. It’s just amazing and I know Ozzy is smiling down at you. Love you always, Sharon.”
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