Pantera have cancelled their upcoming gigs to give themselves time to grieve their hero Ozzy Osbourne.
The rockers – who were among the performers at Ozzy’s Black Sabath reunion gig Back to the Beginning on July 5 – have axed three shows and postponed two more because they “need time and space to grieve” following Ozzy’s shock death on July 22, which came just two weeks after the big show in Birmingham, England.
In a statement posted on Instagram, Pantera explained: “Ozzy wasn’t just a legend who shaped the very foundation of heavy metal and inspired Pantera from the beginning – he was family.
“A mentor, a brother, and a constant presence in our lives both on and off the stage. The bond we shared with him ran far deeper than music.
“In light of this profound loss, we need time and space to grieve – to be with our families, our crew, and each other as we process and honor the life of someone who meant so much to us.
“Out of respect, and to allow members of our team the time to mourn, we will be [rescheduling and cancelling a number of shows].”
The Pantera show in Saratoga Springs, New York on July 28 has been postponed to September 9 and the concert on July 31 in Holmdel, New Jersey will now take place on September 9.
Shows in Gilford, New Hampshire on July 29, Birmingham, Alabama on September 8 and Virginia Beach, Virginia on September 10 have been cancelled.
The statement added: “We appreciate your understanding during this difficult time.”
Pantera’s guitarist Zakk Wylde was previously a member of Ozzy’s solo band and he was also part of the rocker’s solo set during the Back to the Beginning concert.
After Ozzy’s death, paid tribute to his friend in a post on Instagram, writing: “Thank you for blessing the world [with[ your kindness and greatness Oz. You brought light into so many lives and made the world a better place.
“You lived [with] the heart of a lion.
“I thank the good Lord every day for blessing my life [with] you in it. I love you Oz. Beyond forever.”