A truly historic and emotional event unfolded at Villa Park in Birmingham on Saturday, July 5, as Black Sabbath reunited for what was billed as Ozzy Osbourne’s final show with the legendary band. The “Back to the Beginning” farewell concert drew a reported 42,000-person crowd and featured an electric lineup of rock legends, marking a pivotal moment in music history.

The day-long concert showcased an impressive roster of supporting acts who performed a mix of Black Sabbath covers and their original material. Esteemed artists such as Steven Tyler, Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Ronnie Wood, Alice in Chains, Slayer, and Fred Durst graced the stage. Adding to the spectacle were two supergroups, with the second featuring a star-studded lineup including Steven Tyler, Ronnie Wood, Travis Barker, Billy Corgan, Sammy Hagar, and Tom Morello, delivering captivating medleys.

Following Metallica’s performance, the Prince of Darkness himself, 76-year-old Ozzy Osbourne, took the stage for a powerful five-song solo set. Despite living with Parkinson’s, Osbourne’s spirit was undimmed as he sat in a black leather chair, pumping up the crowd with his iconic enthusiasm, declaring, “Are you ready? Let the madness begin!” The anticipation reached a fever pitch when he was joined by his former Black Sabbath bandmates, Tony Iommi, Bill Ward, and Geezer Butler, for a four-song set, marking the first time all original members had performed together in 20 years.

The night culminated in an deeply moving farewell. After the final song, Osbourne was presented with a cake, and a dazzling display of fireworks erupted over Villa Park. An emotional Osbourne thanked the crowd, stating, “It’s the last song ever. Your support has enabled us to live an amazing lifestyle, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. I love you.” The concert also featured recorded video shout-outs to Osbourne from fellow music luminaries such as Dolly Parton, Elton John, Billy Idol, and Jonathan Davis, who spoke to Black Sabbath’s profound impact on their own music.

The sold-out concert was expertly hosted by “Aquaman” star Jason Momoa. Beyond the music, the event had a significant philanthropic mission, with all proceeds dedicated to three vital charities: Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorn Children’s Hospice. Prior to the show, Ozzy’s wife and manager, Sharon Osbourne, revealed her decision to disinvite a band that sought to profit from the event, emphasizing the non-profit nature of the farewell.

The legacy of Black Sabbath, co-founded by Osbourne in Birmingham in 1968, as one of the most successful metal bands of all time, was palpable throughout the night. The farewell show provided a much-needed “full stop” for Osbourne, as Sharon described, allowing him to properly bid farewell to his friends and fans. This final performance came after Osbourne’s diagnosis with Parkinson’s in 2020 and his subsequent cancellation of his 2023 tour to focus on his health. The sentiment of the night was perfectly encapsulated by his son Jack Osbourne’s Instagram tribute, sharing old footage and expressing gratitude for lessons learned: “For everything I learned along the way…the final Good Night We Love You All.”