BIRMINGHAM, England — Legendary heavy metal pioneers Black Sabbath are set to take the stage for a final reunion concert this weekend at Villa Park, marking the first time in two decades that the original lineup—Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward—will perform together. This momentous event, dubbed “Back To The Beginning,” is poised to be both a personal and collective farewell for a band that has defined the metal genre since their inception.
Scheduled for July 5, the concert will take place in Birmingham, the band’s hometown and the home ground of their beloved football club, Aston Villa. The venue choice is particularly poignant for the group, as it resonates with their roots and connection to the community. This show is not only a significant return to their origins but also marks Osbourne’s final performance, concluding a storied career that began over 50 years ago.
Black Sabbath’s earlier retirement came after a farewell tour in 2017, featuring three of the original members but notably excluding drummer Bill Ward due to prior contractual disputes. Recently, Osbourne expressed a sense of incompleteness regarding their farewell, stating that it lacked the true essence of the original lineup. He voiced a desire to reunite with Ward, which ultimately led to the official announcement of this reunion concert earlier this year.
This concert is expected to be more than just a nostalgia trip; it’s designed to be a festive celebration of heavy metal. Alongside Black Sabbath, a diverse lineup of heavy metal legends, including Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Slayer, and Anthrax, will also perform, creating a unique collaboration of iconic artists.
While ticket demand has skyrocketed—reports indicate that the online queue for tickets surged past 60,000—the concert raised significant funds for charities, including Birmingham’s Children’s Hospital. The emphasis on charity highlights Black Sabbath’s ongoing commitment to giving back to their community.
Osbourne’s health challenges have significantly shaped this farewell. He initially retired in 2023, citing the lingering effects of serious surgeries and his ongoing battle with Parkinson’s disease. Despite his vocal prowess remaining intact, his physical limitations have ultimately influenced his decision to step away from performing live after this event.
The reunion will feature a unique format, described by Sharon Osbourne as a lineup of “icons playing together.” The concert will weave collaborations among various artists, culminating in a performance by the original Black Sabbath lineup. However, Osbourne has indicated his role will be limited to select moments, prioritizing his comfort and well-being.
With excitement building as the date approaches, “Back To The Beginning” promises to be a historic event, encapsulating the band’s legacy and their impact on music. As fans eagerly anticipate this once-in-a-lifetime performance, it serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of Black Sabbath and their profound influence on generations of musicians and music lovers alike.