King Charles’ Guards Perform Black Sabbath Tribute at Buckingham Palace

On July 30, 2025, the Band of the Coldstream Guards performed an instrumental rendition of Black Sabbath’s “Paranoid” during the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace as a tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne. The performance coincided with Osbourne’s funeral procession in Birmingham, where thousands gathered to honor the heavy metal legend known as the “Prince of Darkness.” Dressed in their traditional red tunics and bearskin hats, the royal band’s tribute drew widespread praise on social media for its unique and heartfelt homage, reflecting Osbourne’s proud British roots and his close ties to the royal family. King Charles III’s official army band led the performance, continuing the legacy of respect between Osbourne and the British monarchy, including past gestures such as a get-well whiskey sent by Charles in 2003. The event highlighted the blending of British ceremonial tradition with rock culture, marking a historic moment of remembrance for the iconic musician who passed away after battling Parkinson’s disease. The tribute has been widely shared online, resonating deeply with fans and the public alike.