Heavy metal pioneers Black Sabbath delivered an emotional and historic farewell concert at Villa Park on Saturday night (July 5, 2025), marking the final live performance of frontman Ozzy Osbourne. The event, dubbed Back to the Beginning, saw over 42,000 fans gather in the band’s hometown to witness the original lineup—Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward—share the stage for the first time in 20 years.
Amid concerns over Osbourne’s health, the 76-year-old singer opened the night with a solo set, appearing on stage seated on a black gothic throne. Despite ongoing struggles with Parkinson’s disease and recent spinal surgeries, Osbourne delivered a heartfelt five-song performance that included “I Don’t Know,” “Mr. Crowley,” “Suicide Solution,” “Mama I’m Coming Home,” and a crowd-fueled rendition of “Crazy Train.”
“I’ve been laid up for six years. Thank you from the bottom of my heart,” said an emotional Osbourne to roaring approval. Confetti filled the air as the crowd chanted “Ozzy, Ozzy” following his final solo number.
After a video tribute to late guitarist Randy Rhoads and a solemn moment dedicated to the late footballer Diogo Jota, the lights dimmed for the main event: a long-awaited reunion of Black Sabbath’s classic lineup.
The band’s 25-minute set opened with “War Pigs,” followed by “N.I.B.” and a thunderous “Iron Man.” The chemistry was palpable, and Ward, performing shirtless behind the kit, added a swing few successors could replicate. Geezer Butler took to the stage with a custom Aston Villa bass guitar for the final numbers—a nod to the band’s local roots.
The set concluded with “Paranoid,” amid a burst of fireworks and confetti. Osbourne addressed the crowd one last time: “It’s the last song ever. Your support has enabled us to live an amazing lifestyle. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”
Throughout the day-long festival curated by Tom Morello, over a dozen bands paid tribute to Sabbath, including Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Slayer, Tool, Pantera, and Anthrax. Guest appearances included Steven Tyler, Ronnie Wood, Billy Corgan, and Jason Momoa, who hosted the event and even dove into the crowd during Pantera’s set.
Video tributes from stars like Elton John, Jack Black, and Dolly Parton underscored the band’s far-reaching legacy, while performances of Sabbath covers like “Electric Funeral,” “Children of the Grave,” and “Supernaut” reinforced the band’s foundational role in metal’s evolution.
Proceeds from the concert will benefit Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorns Children’s Hospice.
For many fans, this was not just a concert but the culmination of a lifetime of devotion. “They’re the Beatles of Birmingham,” said one attendee. Judging by the emotion inside Villa Park, few would disagree.
It's the last song ever. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts," Ozzy told the crowd, closing the book on Black Sabbath's six-decade legacy with "Paranoid"