Maynard James Keenan on Ozzy Osbourne's Challenge for Black Sabbath's Final Show

Maynard James Keenan suggests getting Ozzy Osbourne on stage for Black Sabbath’s final gig might require modern miracles.

A Star-Studded Farewell

Tool's frontman, Maynard James Keenan, has offered a candid take on the challenges facing Ozzy Osbourne as he considers performing at Black Sabbath's final concert. He expressed that it might take “modern miracles” to see Osbourne on stage for this monumental event.

The concert, aptly titled ‘Back To The Beginning,’ is set to take place at Birmingham’s Villa Park on July 5, 2025. It's already being touted as a massive affair, with a line-up that includes renowned acts like Metallica, Slayer, Pantera, Alice In Chains, Gojira, Anthrax, the Smashing Pumpkins' Billy Corgan, Guns N’ Roses, and KoRn.

Health Concerns for Ozzy

While Osbourne recently noted he is “in heavy training” for the concert, his recent health struggles have raised questions about his ability to perform fully. He previously indicated to fans that he might only be “doing little bits and pieces” during the show due to ongoing health issues.

In a recent interview on Loudwire Nights, Keenan reflected on his concerns after witnessing Osbourne during the Black Sabbath frontman's induction at the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame last year.

“I think for me, seeing Ozzy moving around at [the Rock Hall ceremony], the idea of him playing a show at all… I don’t know that this [concert] is gonna happen,” Keenan shared.

He continued, expressing a sense of cautious optimism: “I’m kinda preparing for the worst – but hoping for the best, as they say.”

Conversations About the Final Show

As Keenan recounted, discussions regarding the concert began during the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction, where he mingled with Wolfgang Van Halen and Metallica bassist Robert Trujillo. The buzz about Black Sabbath's final performance was palpable, and Keenan indicated he had plans to contribute to the show.

“I was like, 'Well, let’s do something.' So I kinda had planned a song to do and all of a sudden, I’m at home and I get the call, ‘Hey, Tool’s been asked to do a song,’ and I’m like ‘Wow. Now I have to reach out to Wolfgang and the rest to tell them I’m going with Tool!’”

Osbourne’s longtime collaborator and guitarist, Zakk Wylde, hinted at a creative possibility for Ozzy’s performance, suggesting he could be performing from a “throne that flies over the stadium.”

Fans Hope for a Heartfelt Goodbye

Despite his health, Osbourne’s wife, Sharon Osbourne, has assured fans that his vocal abilities remain intact, despite complications from Parkinson's disease. She noted previously that her husband was feeling “very emotional” about this final opportunity to express gratitude to his fans.

“He wants to say thank you to everybody,” Sharon stated. “He didn’t have that chance because of his illness, but now he does have the chance.”

Tom Morello, renowned guitarist, is set to perform and act as the musical director for the event. He has expressed his honor in taking on this significant role and has teased that fans might expect some surprise appearances from other “huge superstars.”

Frequently Asked Questions:

• What is the date of Black Sabbath's final concert? The concert is scheduled for July 5, 2025, at Birmingham’s Villa Park.
• Who will perform alongside Black Sabbath? The line-up includes Metallica, Slayer, Pantera, and many others.
• Why is there concern about Ozzy's ability to perform? Ozzy has been dealing with multiple health issues, including Parkinson's disease, which affects his mobility.
• Who is the musical director for the event? Tom Morello will serve as the musical director for the final concert.
• What did Sharon Osbourne say about Ozzy's condition? She assured fans that his illness does not affect his voice, and he wants to thank everyone for their support.

If you're a fan of these legendary artists, don't miss the chance to shop your favorite album cover poster at our store! Check it out here.