When the legendary Ozzy Osbourne passed away on July 22, 2025 the world (and myself) mourned the loss of a musical icon. Once Ozzy was considered a poster child for how not to behave in society, but when “The Osbournes” aired on MTV, the world got to see who the man really was: a lover. A lover of his wife, a lover of his children, a lover of his pets, a lover of chocolate, and a lover of life.
In Ozzy’s final show, a reunion concert with Black Sabbath, they raised millions for Parkinson’s charities. This final and selfless act reflects his love of life and his hope that someday things will be better. A hope he shared with many across our community.
Perhaps Ozzy said it best in his 2001 hit song, “Dreamer”:
“I watch the sun go down like every one of us
I’m hoping that the dawn will bring a sign
A better place for those who will come after us
This time.”
In this follow-up to my earlier piece 14 Musicians with PD and Their Hit Songs, Ozzy’s passing made me want to find out which other legendary musicians had Parkinson’s. As we reflect, take a moment to honor each artist and revisit one of their hits, letting their music speak for their legacy.
1. Morten Harket — A-ha lead singer – “Take On Me”
2. Alex Band — The Calling lead singer (YOPD) – “Wherever You Will Go”
3. Marc Cohn – singer & songwriter – “Walking in Memphis”
4. Joe Ely – singer & songwriter – “She Never Spoke Spanish To Me”
5. Justin Currie — Del Amitri lead singer – “Roll To Me”
6. Mick Jones — Foreigner guitarist & producer – “Juke Box Hero”
7. Daryl Stuermer — Genesis & Phil Collin’s guitarist – “Against All Odds (Take a Look at Me Now)”
8. Gary Wright – singer & songwriter – “Love Is Alive”
9. Jerry Butler – singer & songwriter – “He Will Break Your Heart”
10. Steuart Smith – Eagles guitarist – “Love Will Keep Us Alive”
11. Andy Leek – Dexy’s Midnight Runners singer & songwriter – “Come On Eileen”
12. Kinky Friedman – singer & songwriter – “Sold American”
13. Pat Torpey – Mr. Big drummer – “Be With You”
14. Barbara Thompson – jazz saxophonist, flautist and composer – “Little Annie-Ooh”
