On Saturday, Ozzy Osbourne, 76, delivered his final concert with his Black Sabbath bandmates Geezer Butler, Tony Iommi, and Bill Ward at his ‘Back To The Beginning’ farewell event in Birmingham, England. The 10-hour show, hosted by Jason Momoa, featured a stellar lineup of guest artists, including Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Jack Black, Steven Tyler, and more. During the performance, legendary drummers such as Danny Carey, Chad Smith, and Travis Barker took on a cover of Sabbath’s ‘Symptom of the Universe,’ showcasing their skills in a unique collaboration.
Osbourne, known for his energetic performances, was seated on a black throne adorned with skulls, symbolizing the dark themes often associated with his music. He performed iconic tracks like ‘Crazy Train’ and ‘Mama I’m Coming Home,’ expressing his gratitude to the audience and acknowledging his health challenges. In his speech, he said, ‘It’s so good to be on this stage… You have no idea how I feel,’ capturing the emotional weight of the moment. The event also featured messages of appreciation from renowned artists such as Dolly Parton, Elton John, and Billy Idol, who highlighted the impact Osbourne and Black Sabbath have had on the music industry.
Fans shared their admiration on social media, highlighting his resilience despite his health issues, including Parkinson’s disease and a history of injuries. Osbourne had previously canceled tour dates in 2023 due to ongoing medical concerns, including surgeries, stem cell treatments, and physical therapy. Despite his physical limitations, he remains determined to continue his career, stating, ‘I’m not dead, still actively doing things.’ This farewell concert marked a significant milestone, symbolizing the end of an era for one of rock music’s most iconic figures.
Osbourne’s journey with Black Sabbath began in the late 1960s, and his contributions to the band’s sound and legacy are immeasurable. He has faced numerous health challenges over the years, including a near-fatal ATV accident in 2003 that led to a Parkinson’s diagnosis. Despite these setbacks, he has continued to perform with a blend of determination and artistry. The concert served not only as a farewell to his career but also as a celebration of his enduring influence on rock music. The emotional farewell, combined with the star-studded lineup and heartfelt tributes, underscored Osbourne’s lasting impact on the music world. Fans and industry colleagues alike have expressed their respect for his perseverance and contributions to rock music, marking this event as a poignant conclusion to his legendary career.