farewell concert caught everyone’s attention when Black Sabbath, the legendary heavy metal band, reunited for a final performance on July 5, 2025. The event, titled Back to the Beginning, took place at Villa Park in Birmingham, the hometown of frontman Ozzy Osbourne. The concert marked a farewell celebration for Osbourne and the band’s last on-stage reunion.The show was Black Sabbath's first performance together in 20 years. Ozzy Osbourne was joined by original members Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward. Together, they performed hits like “War Pigs,” “NIB,” “Iron Man,” and “Paranoid.” Osbourne, seated on a black winged throne, opened his solo set with “Mr. Crowley” and “Crazy Train.”

The concert featured some of the biggest names in rock and metal. Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Slayer, Tool, Gojira, Alice in Chains, The Smashing Pumpkins’ Billy Corgan, Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler, Korn’s Jonathan Davis, and Wolfgang Van Halen performed during the event. Hollywood actor Jason Momoa and actor Adria Arjona hosted the event. Momoa also joined fans in a circle pit and shared his passion for the band, saying Black Sabbath’s music inspired all his characters.

Diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2019, Ozzy Osbourne had been largely away from live shows. His appearance was a surprise and a return after several canceled performances. He last appeared publicly at the 2024 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction but did not perform. The Back to the Beginning concert was streamed worldwide with a two-hour delay, allowing global fans to watch the event.

Pre-recorded tributes were aired during the show. Dolly Parton, Elton John and Jack Black were among those who paid homage. Jack Black recreated Osbourne’s famous “Mr. Crowley” performance. The city of Birmingham had also shown pride in Osbourne’s return, decorating the area with murals and tributes ahead of the concert.The event was co-organized by Sharon Osbourne and Rage Against the Machine’s Tom Morello. Morello also served as the musical director. The concert ran for 10 hours and was billed as a final send-off for Black Sabbath and Ozzy. All proceeds will go to Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorns Children’s Hospice.Later this year, Ozzy Osbourne: No Escape From Now will release on Paramount+. The documentary will explore his career, medical struggles, and life beyond music. It will offer a deeper look into his public image and recent challenges.Black Sabbath, formed in 1968 in Birmingham, played a key role in shaping the heavy metal genre. Their sound and imagery became influential across generations. Osbourne also reached mainstream audiences with the MTV show The Osbournes. The Villa Park concert brought their journey full circle, back where it started.
The concert raised funds for Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorns Children’s Hospice through a one-day-only music event.

Artists included Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Alice in Chains, Tool, Slayer, and Korn, alongside Ozzy Osbourne and other original Black Sabbath members.