Ozzy Osbourne bids farewell with final concert alongside Black Sabbath
- Ozzy Osbourne performed his last concert with original Black Sabbath members at Villa Park in Birmingham.
- The concert, featuring iconic rock artists, aimed to benefit various foundations, including Cure Parkinson's.
- The event has been hailed as a monumental farewell for both Osbourne and Black Sabbath.
In Birmingham, England, legendary heavy metal singer Ozzy Osbourne performed what is billed as his farewell concert with the original members of Black Sabbath. This significant event, titled 'Back to the Beginning,' took place on July 6, 2023, and marked the first time in 20 years that Osbourne reunited with bandmates Geezer Butler, Tony Iommi, and Bill Ward on stage. The concert was a grand and emotional 10-hour affair, also featuring performances by iconic artists such as Metallica, Guns N' Roses, and many others, paying tribute to the band's influential legacy. The farewell concert was not just a celebration of past achievements, but also a poignant occasion as Osbourne has faced serious health challenges in recent years, including a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease. Despite his struggles, Osbourne addressed the audience in a heartfelt manner, expressing gratitude for their longstanding support over the years. His performance, while physically demanding, showcased his undeniable stage presence, as he performed beloved hits like 'Paranoid,' 'Crazy Train,' and 'Iron Man,' often while seated on a throne-like chair due to his health condition. The event attracted around 40,000 fans and was hosted by actor Jason Momoa, who energized the crowd with enthusiasm and excitement. Throughout the day, legendary musicians gathered to honor Osbourne and Black Sabbath, with unique performances and special appearances from notable names within the rock and metal community. The concert was also livestreamed, allowing fans worldwide to participate in what was termed as the 'most epic day in the history of heavy metal.' This farewell concert concluded a long legacy for the pioneering band, which started in 1968 and has profoundly influenced the heavy metal genre. After several farewell tours and a reunion in recent years, this final performance symbolizes a heartfelt goodbye for both the band and their fans. It reinforces Black Sabbath's place in music history and Ozzy Osbourne's status as the 'Prince of Darkness,' leaving an indelible mark on rock music for generations to come.