Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne Deliver Final Live Performances in Birmingham

Celebrate the legendary Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne’s final live show, marking a historic moment in heavy metal history.

A Legendary Farewell at Vila Park

Rock’n’roll goodbyes are often followed by unexpected returns, but on July 5, Black Sabbath and their iconic frontman Ozzy Osbourne truly bid their final farewell. The monumental event, dubbed Back to the Beginning, took place at Vila Park in Birmingham, England—the very heart of Black Sabbath’s hometown. This was a day-long celebration packed with legendary performances, marking what Osbourne and the band have insisted will be their last ever live performances.

Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath performing at their final concert in Birmingham.

A Star-Studded Celebration of Metal

The event was nothing short of epic, featuring an all-star lineup of admirers and peers from across rock and metal genres. Rage Against the Machine’s Tom Morello led a powerhouse house band with members from Megadeth, Judas Priest, Extreme, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. Other legendary acts who joined the celebration included Guns N’ Roses, Tool, Metallica, Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler, Slayer, Anthrax, Pantera, Lamb of God, Mastodon, Alice in Chains, Smashing Pumpkins’ Billy Corgan, and Gojira. The festivities were hosted by actor Jason Momoa, adding a touch of Hollywood glamor to the event.

Ozzy Osbourne’s Return to the Stage

At 76, Ozzy Osbourne made a triumphant return to the stage for the first proper concert since 2018 after enduring serious health challenges. The original Black Sabbath lineup—Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward—also reunited for their first performance together in two decades.

For his solo set, Ozzy was backed by drummer Tommy Clufetos, bassist Mike Inez, keyboardist Adam Wakeman, and longtime guitarist Zakk Wylde. Despite sitting on an elaborate throne adorned with black wings, Ozzy delivered powerful renditions of classics such as “I Don’t Know,” “Mr. Crowley,” “Suicide Solution,” “Mama, I’m Coming Home,” and “Crazy Train.”

Black Sabbath’s Grand Finale

The night culminated with Black Sabbath themselves closing the show with a setlist that included “War Pigs,” “N.I.B.,” an extended version of “Iron Man,” and “Paranoid.” The moment was made even more special when Ozzy was presented with a cake, and fireworks lit up the sky above Vila Park. “It’s so good to be on this fucking stage,” Ozzy declared, reminding everyone why he remains the Prince of Darkness.

Honoring Black Sabbath’s Influence

Throughout the night, the profound impact Black Sabbath and Ozzy had on heavy metal and hard rock was undeniable. Guns N’ Roses paid tribute by performing three Sabbath covers—“Never Say Die,” “Junior’s Eyes,” and “Sabbath Bloody Sabbath”—for the first time in their nearly 40-year career.

Metallica also jumped into the spotlight with their debut performance of “Johnny Blade” from Sabbath’s 1978 album Never Say Die! Meanwhile, Pantera joined the celebration by covering “Electric Funeral” for the very first time.

“With merging and collaborating metal acts swapping over on a revolving stage, it’s a fast-spinning Lazy Susan of metal history. Yet there’s precious little ego and plenty of heartfelt humility amongst the huge names on display. Everyone handles their Sabbath covers like sacred texts, to be splattered with their own brands of vivifying savagery but never completely chewed up and spat in the fire.”

– The Independent

A Night to Remember in Rock History

This unforgettable event wasn’t just a concert—it was a powerful tribute to a band that shaped the very foundation of heavy metal. Fans witnessed a blending of generations and styles, united by their respect for Black Sabbath’s trailblazing legacy.

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Tony Iommi, Black Sabbath’s legendary guitarist, performing at their final show.

Conclusion

As the final chords echoed through Vila Park, it was clear that Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne have left an indelible mark on the music world. Their farewell may be final, but the legacy they've built will continue to inspire future generations of rockers and metalheads alike. What are your favorite Black Sabbath memories or songs? Let us know!

FAQs

• What was the significance of the Black Sabbath final performance?
  It marked the last live show for Ozzy Osbourne and the original Black Sabbath lineup, ending a legendary era in heavy metal.
• Who hosted the Black Sabbath farewell event?
  Actor Jason Momoa hosted the day-long event, bringing star power to the celebration.
• Which bands performed covers of Black Sabbath songs?
  Guns N’ Roses, Metallica, and Pantera all performed Black Sabbath covers, some for the very first time.
• Was this Ozzy Osbourne’s first live performance in a while?
  Yes, it was his first proper concert since 2018, following serious health issues.
• Where did the final Black Sabbath concert take place?
  The concert was held at Vila Park in Birmingham, England, Black Sabbath's hometown.

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