In a moving tribute to one of rock’s most legendary voices, country rock band 49 Winchester has released a stirring live cover of Black Sabbath’s “Changes.” The performance, recorded at the O2 Institute in Birmingham, England, Ozzy Osbourne’s hometown, carries an unmistakable emotional weight. Before launching into the song, frontman Isaac Gibson tells the crowd, “We’re doing one for Ozzy tonight,” and the audience responds with roaring applause.

The moment captures a rare kind of musical connection, as a band from the Appalachian mountains salutes a Birmingham icon on his home turf. One YouTube fan wrote, “Incredible how you guys can take another artist’s song... another genre... and just flip it into something newly amazing. It’s a tribute to Ozzy and you all that musically we’re never that far apart. Job well done, thank you.” Another added, “Beautiful rendition! You’ve done Ozzy proud!”

Produced by Grammy Award winner and MCA Chief Creative Officer Dave Cobb, the live recording highlights a new era for 49 Winchester. It is the first taste of music from the band’s partnership with MCA’s Lucille Records imprint, announced in collaboration with UMG’s Fontana Records in the UK.

Currently in the studio with Cobb, the Virginia-based six-piece is working on a full-length album slated for release in 2026. Known for his work with Chris Stapleton, Sturgill Simpson, and Jason Isbell, Cobb brings a signature warmth and authenticity to the sessions, amplifying the band’s trademark sound: raw, heartfelt, and deeply rooted in Southern storytelling.

“We’re thrilled to be joining the MCA and Lucille family,” says Isaac Gibson, lead vocalist and guitarist. “Working with Dave Cobb is a dream, and we can’t wait for our fans to hear the new music we’re creating together.” Bassist and co-founder Chase Chafin adds, “So grateful to the fans and team who helped us build this to where it is today. We couldn’t be more excited for MCA to be the home of future 49 Winchester releases.”

49 Winchester’s version of “Changes” is more than a cover. It is a moment of reverence, performed live in the city where Ozzy’s story began. It shows that the distance between Appalachian country and British heavy metal is not so wide after all, because both speak the language of heart, struggle, and soul.

This fall, 49 Winchester will bring their celebrated live energy to Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium for two nights on November 14 and 15. Fans can stream or download “Changes” now and look forward to new music from the band’s upcoming album in 2026.

Read our interview with 49 Winchester, when they toured with Luke Combs.

Author: Andrew Braithwaite

Andrew is the founder and chief editor of Music Talkers. He's also a keen music enthusiast and plays the guitar.