Podcast Summary: Sharon Osbourne | The Magnificent Others with Billy Corgan

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The Magnificent Others, host Billy Corgan engages in an in-depth conversation with Sharon Osbourne. Sharon, a renowned television personality and music manager, shares her extraordinary journey through the music industry, her personal struggles, and her impactful role in shaping rock and metal music as we know it today.

Early Life and Family Background

Sharon Osbourne begins by reflecting on her upbringing in post-war Britain. She recounts living near bomb sites well into her childhood, a backdrop that profoundly influenced her perspective on life and resilience.

Sharon Osbourne [01:05]: "We lived in a house that right behind was still bomb sites. Even when I left at 12, there was still bomb sites."

Her mother was a dancer and her grandmother a choreographer, immersing Sharon in the performing arts from a young age. This early exposure laid the foundation for her future endeavors in the entertainment industry.

Sharon Osbourne [05:27]: "If you could entertain, you'll never earn a living."

Managing Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath

Sharon delves into her father's career as a music manager, highlighting his role in managing iconic artists like Gene Vincent and Black Sabbath. She describes her initial exposure to the rock scene through her father's office in Mayfair, London.

Sharon Osbourne [12:06]: "He was so charismatic... when he would walk into a room, you'd notice this because of the presence that he exuded."

Sharon recounts managing Ozzy Osbourne after his departure from Black Sabbath, detailing the challenges they faced in breaking Ozzy as a solo artist. Their partnership was not just professional but also deeply personal, ultimately leading to their marriage.

Sharon Osbourne [43:18]: "I have to go to the record company and say, Ozzy's going to be leaving Jack. You want to sign him directly. Which they did."

Music Industry Dynamics and Challenges

The conversation shifts to the gritty realities of the music industry in the 70s and 80s. Sharon discusses practices like chart manipulation and the pervasive influence of organized crime, which often dictated the success of artists.

Sharon Osbourne [19:22]: "There are no laws. They were pioneers. So lawyers, this, the other. Forget it."

Sharon also sheds light on her father's aggressive management style and the intense pressures artists like Ozzy faced, including public scrutiny and internal band conflicts.

Sharon Osbourne [38:44]: "And they were kids. Obviously, those bridges have been repaired and mended long ago."

Building Ozzfest

In response to the exclusion of Ozzy from major festivals like Lollapalooza, Sharon took a bold step by creating Ozzfest, a festival dedicated to heavy metal music. This move not only provided a platform for metal bands but also solidified Sharon's influence in the genre.

Sharon Osbourne [61:39]: "How disrespectful to say that. I was like, I'm gonna show you, you bastards. How dare you say that about an artist."

Ozzfest became a staple in the rock and metal community, fostering countless relationships and promoting the genre globally.

Transition into Television

Sharon discusses her unexpected foray into television with The Osbournes. Initially intended as a short-term engagement, the show became a cultural phenomenon, offering an unfiltered glimpse into her family's life. While it boosted Ozzy's popularity, Sharon expresses mixed feelings about the invasive nature of reality TV.

Sharon Osbourne [64:44]: "We were looking at it all as a family, the four of us. And it actually disturbed me. It disturbed me for my kids."

Personal Struggles and Mental Health

Opening up about her personal battles, Sharon addresses her long-term struggle with depression and her recent diagnosis of ADHD. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity and the challenges of maintaining mental health in the public eye.

Sharon Osbourne [79:36]: "I've had it for years. I was born with it. I've always had that, you know, put on a jolly face, showbiz face. And then, when everybody's gone, you're like this."

Sharon also touches on the impact of her father's Alzheimer's diagnosis, revealing the emotional toll it took on her and her family.

Reflections on the Music Industry

Throughout the conversation, Sharon offers critical insights into the current state of the music industry. She laments the shift from artist-driven creativity to profit-driven models, expressing frustration over the loss of genuine human connections in favor of commodification.

Sharon Osbourne [88:56]: "We're not cars. We're not cans of soup. It's human beings."

Sharon advocates for a more respectful and equitable industry that values artists beyond just their marketability.

Conclusion

Sharon Osbourne concludes by sharing her aspirations beyond the entertainment world—focused on being a loving grandmother and supporting her family. She underscores the importance of staying true to oneself amidst the relentless pressures of fame and industry expectations.

Sharon Osbourne [83:53]: "To be a good grandmother. Be wise for my grandkids. Teach them wise things. And take care of my hubby."

Sharon's candid revelations and profound reflections provide listeners with a deeper understanding of her multifaceted life, her unwavering dedication to her family, and her indelible impact on the music industry.

Notable Quotes

• "How disrespectful to say that." — Sharon Osbourne [61:39]
• "We are not cars. We are human beings." — Sharon Osbourne [88:56]
• "To be a good grandmother. Be wise for my grandkids." — Sharon Osbourne [83:53]

Final Thoughts

This episode offers a rich tapestry of Sharon Osbourne's experiences, blending personal anecdotes with industry insights. For anyone interested in the inner workings of rock royalty and the complexities of managing legendary artists, this conversation is both enlightening and inspiring.