In a Poignant and Visually Striking Scene Filmed in 2010, Heavy Metal Icon Ozzy Osbourne Walks the Streets of New York City Dressed in Black Carrying a Bouquet of Purple Flowers Before Laying Them at the John Lennon Memorial in Central Park as Part of the Music Video for His Charity Cover of Lennon’s Song “How,” Creating an Emotional Tribute That Blends Rock History, Personal Respect, and a Message of Peace
In 2010, the “Prince of Darkness” showed a softer side in a moment that blended music, memory, and heartfelt tribute. Ozzy Osbourne, known for decades as the wild frontman of Black Sabbath and a towering figure in heavy metal, was captured in a simple yet moving act for the music video of his cover of John Lennon’s song How.
Dressed in all black, Osbourne was filmed walking alone through the streets of New York City. In his hands, he carried a bouquet of vivid purple flowers — a striking splash of color against his dark clothing and the city’s bustling backdrop. His destination was a place that has drawn Lennon fans from around the world: the Imagine mosaic in Central Park’s Strawberry Fields, a memorial dedicated to the late Beatle and peace advocate.
The video shows Osbourne’s slow, deliberate steps through Manhattan, passing everyday life before reaching the memorial. There, he kneels and carefully lays the purple flowers on the mosaic, pausing for a moment of quiet reflection. The act, though staged for the music video, resonated with real sincerity, underscoring the deep respect Osbourne holds for Lennon’s artistry and message.
The cover of How was recorded as part of a charity effort, with proceeds supporting causes tied to peace and humanitarian aid. For Osbourne, taking on Lennon’s introspective ballad was both a musical challenge and a personal statement. “John Lennon’s music means the world to me,” he said at the time. “Covering this song felt like a way to connect with his spirit and share his message with a new generation.”
Fans who watched the video praised its understated emotional power, noting that the imagery of a rock icon known for onstage chaos performing such a quiet, reverent act was both surprising and deeply touching.
While the performance was tied to a specific project, the moment stands as a unique intersection of two musical legacies — Lennon’s enduring influence and Osbourne’s ability to channel that inspiration into his own voice. For a brief, flower-laden walk in Central Park, the “Prince of Darkness” became a messenger of peace.
