When it was announced that Ozzy Osbourne would perform during halftime at the NFL’s season opening game between the Los Angeles Rams and Buffalo Bills, a press release stated that a “portion” of his set would air as part of the NBC broadcast. As it turns out, a “portion” meant only about 10 seconds.
Those who tuned in for the halftime performance saw only a brief clip of Ozzy playing his tune “Patient Number 9,” the title off his just-released solo album, before the broadcast cut back to analysis of the game’s first half.
As it became clear that the rest of Ozzy’s performance wouldn’t be aired, followers of the Prince of Darkness took to social media to air their frustrations.
“Wtf was that?” asked one fan. “You say ‘here’s Ozzy Osbourne’ cut to him for 5 seconds then back to the half time recap no one cares about?”
Another added, “NBC thinking we’d rather hear a 1st half recap than Ozzy Osbourne’s performance is…puzzling.”
According to Setlist.fm, Ozzy’s whole performance included “Patient Number 9” and his solo classic “Crazy Train.” He was backed by producer Andrew Watt on guitar, bassist Chris Chaney and drummer Tommy Clufetos for both songs, while Zakk Wylde joined for “Crazy Train.”
If you were among those disappointed by the broadcast, perhaps you can find comfort in listening to the Patient Number 9 album, which is out September 9. It includes guest contributions from Wylde, Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, Black Sabbath‘s Tony Iommi, Pearl Jam‘s Mike McCready, Duff McKagan of Guns N’ Roses, Chad Smith of Red Hot Chili Peppers, Metallica‘s Robert Trujillo and late Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins.
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