Birmingham city councilors have been reviewing a report called Destination Birmingham, part of an effort to recognize the contributions and success of local musicians while boosting tourism in the region.
During discussions this week, the Birmingham Mail reports councilors have also suggested that Ozzy Osbourne be given the city’s highest honor: Freedom of the City of Birmingham.
Council head of children’s social services Matt Bennett made his call for the honor, saying, “I studied in Liverpool and they do know how to make the most of their music. Yes they have The Beatles but they do like to go on and on about it. So I say give Ozzy Osbourne the Freedom of the City. He is the most famous Brummie on the planet. A few years ago he played for the Queen, and if he is good enough for the Queen he is good enough for Birmingham.”
If granted the Freedom, Ozzy would join conductor Sir Simon Rattle and round the world yatchswoman Lisa Clayton, as well as a long list of politicians and military regiments, to have been awarded the honorary title.
The suggestion was immediately endorsed by both the cabinet member for leisure, sport and culture Martin Mullaney and Coun Philip Parkin, whose Destination Birmingham report into the city’s music industry suggested a Black Sabbath Day, among a range of initiatives to boost music tourism in the city.
Black Sabbath Black Sabbath – Iron Man
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