BY SANTI GABINO JR.

Get ready for some shows at the Athens Theatre in DeLand that will rock your world! On Wednesday, Nov. 1, at 7:30 p.m., the Athens is kicking things off with “Crazy Babies, Ozzy Rebourne,” an epic tribute to none other than the iconic Ozzy Osbourne. Then, on Saturday, Nov. 4, at 7:30 p.m., we’re keeping the music alive with “Brothers Again, A Tribute to the Allman Brothers.”  

Prepare to be transported into the world of rock and metal legend Ozzy Osbourne, with “Crazy Babies, Ozzy Rebourne.” Ozzy Osbourne is an English singer and songwriter who gained worldwide fame as the lead vocalist of the legendary heavy-metal band Black Sabbath.

Born John Michael Osbourne on Dec. 3, 1948, in Birmingham, England, Ozzie formed Black Sabbath in 1968 with guitarist Tony Lommi, bassist Geezer Butler and drummer Bill Ward. The band’s self-titled debut album, released in 1970, is widely regarded as one of the pioneering works of the heavy-metal genre.

Black Sabbath’s music was characterized by its dark and heavy sound, featuring crushing guitar riffs and Ozzy’s distinctive vocals. Hits like “Iron Man,” “Paranoid” and “War Pigs” catapulted the band to international stardom, earning them a dedicated following and cementing their place in rock history.

In 1979, Osbourne embarked on a successful solo career, releasing albums like Blizzard of Ozz and Diary of a Madman. His solo work included iconic songs such as “Crazy Train” and “Mama, I’m Coming Home.” His solo career solidified his status as a rock icon, and he continued to release music and tour extensively throughout the years.

Following the electrifying Ozzy Osbourne tribute, on Saturday, Nov. 4, the Athens welcomes Brothers Again, a tribute to North Florida natives the Allman Brothers. Formed in 1969, the band’s unique blend of rock, blues, jazz and Southern soul created a distinctive sound that would come to be known as Southern rock. The founding members included Duane Allman (lead guitar), Gregg Allman (vocals, keyboards), Dickey Betts (guitar), Berry Oakley (bass), Butch Trucks (drums) and Jai Johanny “Jaimoe” Johanson (drums).

The Allman Brothers Band released their self-titled debut album in 1969, but it was their 1971 album At Fillmore East that catapulted them to fame. The live album showcased the band’s improvisational skills and featured extended jams, making it one of the most influential live recordings.

Tragically, Duane Allman was killed in a motorcycle accident in 1971, but the band carried on, releasing albums like Eat a Peach and Brothers and Sisters that included the now-iconic hits “Ramblin’ Man,” “Jessica” and “Melissa.”

So, mark your calendars for a celebration of music, a journey through time, and a reminder that great music lives on forever! 

The Athens Theatre is at 124 N. Florida Ave. in Downtown DeLand.

For tickets and more information, visit www.AthensDeLand.com, or phone the box office at 386-736-1500.