Mötley Crüe bassist Nikki Sixx has explained the band’s notable absence from the historic “Back To The Beginning” tribute concert for Ozzy Osbourne, revealing that frontman Vince Neil‘s recovery from a stroke made it impossible for them to participate. In a new interview with Billboard, Sixx paid a powerful tribute to the man he credits with launching his band’s career, declaring that he will “forever be in debt to Sharon and Ozzy.”
When asked why Mötley Crüe was not part of the all-star lineup that gathered in Birmingham, England, on July 5, Sixx explained that the timing was simply impossible due to Neil‘s serious health situation.
“It was something we were just unable to do… We couldn’t do it even if we wanted to,” he said, noting that Neil was still recovering from the debilitating stroke he suffered in late December 2024.
Though they couldn’t be there in person, Sixx watched the event online and spoke at length about the profound gratitude he feels for the Osbournes, who gave Mötley Crüe their first major tour slot in the early 1980s.
“Honestly, they broke our band,” Sixx stated. “Sharon saw a band that something was happening with and it was a perfect fit for Ozzy, and we just became so close and Ozzy took us around the world and just did everything for us… and of course all the wild and fun stories that is Ozzy. I’ll forever be in debt to Sharon and Ozzy for that.”
He was filled with pride watching his friend and mentor deliver a final, triumphant performance.
“And, man, I gotta tell ya — Ozzy, way to f***in’ go out with a bang,” Sixx said. “He really did it, and everybody showed up because they loved him and supported him. Unfortunately, we don’t have him anymore, but we got one of the greatest rock stars of all time who came while we were here on this planet and went back to the f***in’ stars… Thank you, Ozzy, every day for the opportunity to have a career.”
