Sharon Osbourne, the legendary British TV personality, music manager, and widow of rock icon Ozzy Osbourne, recently addressed the ongoing debate about the relevance of rock music in the modern era. During her appearance at MIDEM 2026 in Cannes, France, she passionately argued that rock will 'never go away' and shared her insights on the genre's enduring appeal.
In a bold statement, Sharon emphasized, 'It's not disco. It's not a gimmick music. It is from the soul.' This sentiment reflects her belief that rock music is a genuine expression of emotion and passion, rather than a fleeting trend. She continued, 'And that's why you just have to keep it going and give these bands a platform, the new talent a platform, because, for me, it'll never go away.'
Sharon's passion for rock music is evident in her role as the mastermind behind Ozzfest, the annual multi-band touring festival that ran from 1996 to 2018. Ozzfest was a platform for both established and emerging metal bands, showcasing the diversity and talent within the genre. She shared, 'It was something Ozzy was very passionate about: giving young talent a stage in front of a lot of people. We really started metal festivals in this country.'
However, Sharon acknowledges the challenges rock music faces in today's music industry. She noted, 'The record industry is so tiny right now. A friend of mine had a No. 3 album in the charts just before Christmas, and I said, 'How many did you sell?' 8,000 to get a No. 3 album at that time of year. I mean, it's minute.' She also criticized the streaming services for not compensating artists fairly and for disrupting the traditional album experience.
Despite these challenges, Sharon remains optimistic about the future of rock music. She believes that live shows are the key to its survival, stating, 'It's all about live shows. 'Cause the record industry is so tiny right now.' She also highlighted the success of bands that started in the late 1990s, filling stadiums and proving that rock music still has a dedicated audience.
Sharon's insights offer a refreshing perspective on the state of rock music, blending her personal experiences with a critical eye. Her passion for the genre and commitment to providing a platform for new talent make her a compelling voice in the ongoing debate about rock music's relevance. So, will rock music continue to thrive? Only time will tell, but Sharon's unwavering belief in its power is certainly a compelling argument.
