July 5, 2025, Villa Park, Birmingham, England. Ozzy Osbourne, the madman of Black Sabbath, played his last show. “Back to the Beginning” was the title of the show and brought the original Black Sabbath lineup together for the first time in 20 years and marked the end of his 50 year career. Despite his Parkinson’s and back problems Ozzy said goodbye to his fans.
A Heavy Metal Homecoming
Just a few blocks from where Black Sabbath was formed in 1968 the show was held in Ozzy’s hometown. Ozzy, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward took the stage together for the first time since Ozzfest in 2005. Millions more watched the event live stream with Metallica, Slayer and Guns N’Roses and 42,000 people were in the audience. Due to his health Ozzy performed from a throne shaped like a skull but his voice was still pure unadulterated Ozzy.
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Ozzy’s solo set steals the show
Ozzy sang 5 of his solo songs including “Crazy Train” and “Mama I’m Coming Home” before Black Sabbath played. He gave his all to every note with long time bandmates Zakk Wylde on guitar. “You have no idea how I feel” he said to the audience after “Suicide Solution” his voice cracking with emotion. Confetti rained down as he finished with “Crazy Train” a song that’s become a anthem for Aston Villa fans at Villa Park and the crowd chanted his name.
Black Sabbath’s Last Stand
The night ended with Black Sabbath’s four songs: “War Pigs,” “N.I.B.,” “Iron Man,” and “Paranoid.” Ozzy’s voice was wobbly at times but the crowd lifted him. Geezer Butler’s bass thundered, Tony Iommi’s guitar screamed and Bill Ward, 77 and shirtless, pounded the drums like a maniac. Fireworks and confetti exploded in the stadium as Ozzy thanked the fans “from the bottom of my heart” for 53 years of support. The set was short but sweet, a fitting end to the band that invented heavy metal.
A Star-Studded Tribute
The 10 hour show had 14 bands and two supergroups playing Black Sabbath and Ozzy songs. Metallica played “Hole in the Sky” and Guns N’ Roses played “Sabbath Bloody Sabbath”. Yungblud’s “Changes” was the standout, dedicated to soccer star Diogo Jota who died a few days ago. Jason Momoa hosted and video tributes from Elton John, Dolly Parton and others played between sets. All profits went to charities like Cure Parkinson’s and Birmingham Children’s Hospital.
Ozzy’s Legacy Lives On
Ozzy Osbourne’s impact on music is undeniable. Black Sabbath’s dark heavy sound created metal, inspiring bands like Metallica and Pantera. His solo career with hits like “No More Tears” kept him a rock icon. Despite health issues – Parkinson’s, a tumour and multiple surgeries – Ozzy’s spirit never broke. “I’m still alive” he said before the show and he proved it. Birmingham honoured him with a mural, a museum exhibit and even police puppies named after the band.
This was Ozzy’s way of saying thank you to the fans and his hometown. As he left the stage, fireworks booming, he cemented his place as the Prince of Darkness, a working class kid from Aston who changed music forever.
Source: NY Times
Mark Phury is a dynamic sports enthusiast with a knack for capturing the thrill of the game. With 3 years at Hindustan Times, he delivers sharp, engaging stories that resonate with fans. Reach him at markphury@gmail.com for insights that score every time.