Back to the Beginning”: Black Sabbath’s Monumental Farewell Concert Raises £140 Million for Charity…….
In a breathtaking fusion of music, memory, and mission, Black Sabbath—the godfathers of heavy metal—bid farewell to their fans in a once-in-a-lifetime event titled “Back to the Beginning.” Held on 5 July 2025 at Villa Park stadium in Birmingham, the concert not only marked the band’s final performance but also raised a staggering £140 million for charity, underscoring the group’s enduring legacy both on and off the stage.
The Final Bow in Their Hometown
Returning to their roots in Aston, Birmingham, where the band first formed in 1968, Black Sabbath chose the city that birthed their revolutionary sound for their final goodbye. More than 45,000 fans packed Villa Park, while millions more streamed the event live around the globe. With nostalgia in the air and amps turned up to eleven, the event was more than a farewell—it was a celebration of an era.
The night was hosted by Jason Momoa, actor and die-hard Sabbath fan, who called the night “the most important moment in heavy metal history.” His emotional opening set the tone for what became an unforgettable evening.
A Lineup Worthy of Metal’s Founding Fathers
The concert featured a jaw-dropping 10-hour lineup curated by Tom Morello, with tributes and performances from some of the most iconic acts in rock and metal. Artists such as Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Alice in Chains, Pantera, and Slayer took the stage, performing both their own material and carefully chosen Black Sabbath covers.
Unique supergroup performances featuring Steven Tyler, Ronnie Wood, Billy Corgan, Tom Morello, and Travis Barker paid homage to Sabbath’s decades-spanning influence. The crowd roared through classic anthems reimagined with fresh energy while still honoring the dark, sludgy roots of Sabbath’s sound.
The preshow included a powerful DJ set from Sid Wilson of Slipknot, blending Sabbath samples with modern beats that had fans headbanging before the first band even played.
Black Sabbath’s Last Performance
As the sun dipped behind the stadium, the original lineup—Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward—emerged one final time. Kicking off with the bone-chilling intro of “Black Sabbath,” the band blazed through a ferocious setlist that included fan favorites like “Iron Man,” “War Pigs,” “N.I.B.,” “Children of the Grave,” and the ultimate closer, “Paranoid.”
Despite his well-publicized health issues, Ozzy Osbourne gave a raw, emotional performance, reminding the crowd of the energy and madness that made him a legend. “This is it, Birmingham,” Ozzy shouted with his signature grin. “We’re ending it where it all began.”
A Historic Fundraising Triumph
Beyond the music, the concert achieved something truly remarkable—£140 million raised for charity. Proceeds from ticket sales, exclusive merchandise, digital streams, and sponsorships will support a range of local and international causes, including:
Birmingham Children’s Hospital
Teenage Cancer Trust
Trussell Trust (food banks)
UNICEF music and education programs
War Child
The Osbourne Mental Health Initiative, a new foundation announced that night by Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne
In Birmingham, a significant portion of the funds will go toward music scholarships, instrument programs in schools, and building rehearsal spaces for underprivileged youth.
A Statue Fit for a Legend
Capping the night, Birmingham’s city council surprised fans by announcing a bronze statue of Ozzy Osbourne, to be unveiled in Aston Park later this year. Designed by renowned sculptor Luke Perry, the statue will depict Ozzy in full performance mode, complete with signature glasses, outstretched arms, and his trademark gothic style.
“From factory floors to festival stages, Ozzy represents the spirit of Birmingham,” said Mayor Yvonne Mosquito. “This statue will be a lasting tribute to a man who gave this city, and the world, a new sound.”
End of an Era, Start of a Legacy
“Back to the Beginning” was more than just a farewell show—it was a reflection of Black Sabbath’s massive cultural footprint. From gritty blues-inspired riffs to doom-laden epics, the band carved out a genre and inspired generations of musicians and fans.
As fireworks lit the night sky and the final feedback faded into the dark, fans stood in awe—some crying, others screaming. But all understood the weight of the moment: the curtain had fallen on the greatest heavy metal band in history.
Black Sabbath may have ended their journey, but their legacy—echoing in power chords and defiant lyrics—will never be silenced.
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