Aging rocker Osbourne offers love to fans

NEW YORK, Oct. 31 (UPI) -- Aging British rock singer Ozzy Osbourne, formerly of Black Sabbath, says he loves performing because it entertains people.

Billboard.com reported Friday that Osbourne, 60, says it is always a privilege for him to perform for his fans.

"I love my fans more than they'll ever love me," Osbourne told Billboard magazine. "I'm not one of those guys that would ever say that they're privileged to see me."

"There's no sex, drugs or rock 'n' roll that could compete with a great gig; it's (expletive) awesome," the rocker added.

Osbourne, who enjoyed a successful solo career after splitting from Black Sabbath, is to receive the Legend of Live award at the 2009 Billboard Touring Awards next Thursday.

For Osbourne, being fired from the heavy metal band in 1979 marked an end of one extended party.

"When Sabbath and I parted company, to be honest, I felt well, that was worth a shot for a while," the "No More Tears" rocker told Billboard. "I had a good time, it was the longest party of my life, really."