In a night filled with nostalgia and raw emotion, legendary rocker Ozzy Osbourne delivered his final solo performance before Black Sabbath’s farewell concert at Villa Park in Birmingham on July 5. The event, aptly named ‘Back To The Beginning’, marks the end of an era for the iconic heavy metal band.
Osbourne, who has been a defining figure in rock music for decades, took the stage in a manner befitting his larger-than-life persona. Emerging from beneath the stage on a giant winged throne, he launched into his set with the classic tracks ‘I Don’t Know’ and ‘Mr. Crowley’ from his 1980 solo debut album, ‘Blizzard Of Ozz’. Addressing the crowd, he exclaimed, “It’s so good to be on this fucking stage, you have no idea. Let the madness begin!”
Black Sabbath’s Final Bow
The farewell concert, which has drawn fans from around the globe, features a lineup of rock royalty, with Tom Morello of Rage Against The Machine serving as the musical director. The atmosphere at Villa Park is electric as fans gather to witness the final performance of a band that has left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Osbourne’s set concluded with the poignant ‘Mama, I’m Coming Home’ and the anthemic ‘Crazy Train’, the latter a staple at every Aston Villa game played at the venue. The concert also saw collaborations from members of The Rolling Stones, Aerosmith, and other rock luminaries, who joined forces for a Led Zeppelin cover, while Yungblud led a supergroup in a rendition of ‘Changes’ dedicated to the late footballer Diogo Jota.
Health Challenges and Determination
Osbourne’s performance is particularly significant given his recent health challenges. The Prince of Darkness has not performed a full gig since 2018 due to multiple surgeries and a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. Despite these obstacles, Osbourne has been determined to give fans a memorable farewell.
In a recent interview with The Guardian, Osbourne expressed his commitment to the final Black Sabbath show, stating, “I’ll be there, and I’ll do the best I can. All I can do is turn up.” His wife and manager, Sharon Osbourne, confirmed that while his illness affects his mobility, it has not impacted his vocal abilities. She shared, “He wants to say thank you to everybody. He didn’t have that chance because of his illness, but now he does have the chance.”
A Legacy Cemented
The farewell concert not only celebrates Black Sabbath’s storied career but also highlights Osbourne’s enduring influence on the genre. Known for his theatrical performances and distinctive voice, Osbourne has been a trailblazer in heavy metal, inspiring countless musicians and fans alike.
As the band takes its final bow, the legacy of Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne is firmly cemented in the annals of rock history. The concert at Villa Park is more than just a farewell; it is a tribute to a band that has shaped the sound and culture of rock music for over five decades.
The future for Osbourne may involve fewer performances, but his impact on music remains undiminished. As fans bid farewell to the band, they carry with them the memories of a night that celebrated the power and passion of rock and roll.




