by Justin Hawkins recently clarified his comments about Yungblud’s MTV VMAs tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne. He addressed the controversy in a statement shared on Justin Hawkins Rides Again.
The statement focused on his reactions to the VMAs performance and his observations about Yungblud’s use of real-time pitch correction during the live tribute.
“There’s nothing feudy about it, especially when it comes to my reactions to the VMAs performance,” Hawkins said. “None of that was intended to incite a feud. I think that Yungblud is a very well-connected and, as such, dangerous artist. He’s an individual who is not the sort of bear you’d go round poking.”
Hawkins elaborated on his criticism of the performance, particularly regarding the use of autotune and Yungblud’s background.
“But I think that when there’s real-time pitch correction happening and stuff like that, and the other observations I made about the overall delivery of it… you’re talking about somebody that came from musical theatre via Disney and is now being lauded as the future of rock,” he continued. “And if they have real-time pitch correction and that kind of background, I think it’s OK to be a bit skeptical about it.”
He defended his right to express critical opinions within the reaction community.
“I know that’s not a very popular opinion but from the reaction community if you can’t say something negative about something that leaves you only one option available to you and that’s not how life works,” he said. “Everybody’s allowed to say whatever they want.”
Hawkins concluded by reframing his criticism as a broader concern about the future of rock music.
“I’m not slagging him off because… I don’t even think I’m slagging it off actually,” he said. “I think I’m making a point that if the future of rock requires real-time pitch correction in a live environment rock is pretty f*****, isn’t it?”
Hawkins’ initial reaction to Yungblud’s VMAs performance sparked discussion online. The comments came after this reaction.
The controversy stems from Yungblud’s performance at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards. He played a central role in honoring the late rock legend.
Rock Sound reported that Yungblud led an emotional tribute medley to Ozzy Osbourne alongside Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, and Nuno Bettencourt at the ceremony. The performance featured a medley including “Crazy Train,” “Changes,” and “Mama, I’m Coming Home.” Yungblud wore Ozzy’s cross as a symbol of respect.
Many viewers regarded the tribute as touching and powerful. YouTube coverage of the event showed that some viewers called it the best performance of the night. The emotional weight of the tribute drew strong responses from both the audience and performers, including tears from Steven Tyler.
However, the performance also drew some criticism regarding Yungblud’s vocal ability. Social media responses revealed that some viewers questioned whether Yungblud was in tune during the tribute. They raised doubts about his vocal performance during the high-profile moment.
Despite Hawkins’ claims about Yungblud’s background in musical theatre and Disney, no public records or available information support these assertions. Yungblud is primarily known as a rock musician recognized for his raw energy and emotive performances rather than theatrical or Disney-related experience.
As of now, neither Yungblud nor his team has publicly responded to Hawkins’ comments about the VMAs performance or the broader criticism regarding pitch correction and his musical background.
