Tool frontman Maynard James Keenan recently opened up about the nerve-wracking experience of performing Ozzy Osbourne’s songs in front of the metal legend himself. He shared his candid thoughts in an interview with Loudwire.
Keenan’s comments addressed the pressure he felt during two high-profile performances involving Ozzy’s music.
When asked if he was calmer getting ready for “Back to the Beginning” after performing at the tribute to Ozzy as part of his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Keenan was brutally honest about his anxiety.
“F*ck no,” Keenan said. “The Rock Hall, he’s literally 20 feet away, starting at the side of my head while I f*ck up one his best Blizzard of Ozz songs.”
The Tool vocalist went on to describe similar pressure during another performance.
“And then this one [‘Back to the Beginning’], it’s slightly out of my range, so I’m just gripping nuts to make sure I hit the notes,” he continued. “And the same thing here, he’s staring at my head.”
The confession reveals the human side of even seasoned performers when faced with honoring their musical heroes in front of them.
Keenan’s involvement with Ozzy’s performances extends beyond these nerve-wracking moments. It reflects a deeper professional relationship that has developed over the years.
Loudwire reported that Keenan’s participation in Ozzy’s farewell show came somewhat unexpectedly. Initially, he considered collaborating with other artists in Birmingham. Tool was then asked to perform a song, leading Keenan to inform other musicians he’d be doing it with his band instead.
The relationship between Keenan and Ozzy has grown into something more personal over the decades. American Songwriter noted that Ozzy has called Keenan “a true family friend since 1997” and praised Keenan’s creativity across multiple successful bands.
Despite the pressure and technical challenges Keenan faces when performing Ozzy’s material, his continued involvement in these high-profile tributes demonstrates the mutual respect between the two metal icons. The performances serve as testament to both Keenan’s versatility as a vocalist and his willingness to step outside his comfort zone to honor one of metal’s most influential figures.
These collaborations highlight how even established artists like Keenan continue to challenge themselves professionally. They accept the vulnerability that comes with performing outside their usual repertoire in front of their musical heroes.
