In an electrifying announcement that has sent shockwaves through the heavy metal community, the original lineup of Black Sabbath has confirmed they will reunite for a one-off concert in 2025. This event marks not only a historic moment for the band but also Ozzy Osbourne’s final live performance. Here’s everything you need to know about this monumental event.
The Announcement
On February 5, 2025, Black Sabbath announced the reunion through various platforms, including a post on X (formerly known as Twitter) by Ozzy Osbourne himself. The reunion will feature the legendary lineup: Ozzy Osbourne on vocals, Tony Iommi on guitar, Geezer Butler on bass, and Bill Ward on drums, marking the first time in over two decades that these four have shared a stage.
The Event: Back to the Beginning
Dubbed “Back to the Beginning,” this charity concert will take place on July 5, 2025, at Villa Park in Birmingham, England, the band’s hometown. This location holds significant emotional weight as it symbolizes a return to where Black Sabbath’s journey began. The event isn’t just a reunion; it’s a grand celebration of Black Sabbath’s legacy and a farewell to Ozzy Osbourne’s live performances.
Supporting Cast
The lineup for the concert is nothing short of spectacular. Alongside Black Sabbath, fans can expect performances from metal titans like Metallica, Slayer, and Pantera. There’s also a supergroup of sorts, featuring musicians like Tom Morello from Rage Against the Machine, Billy Corgan of The Smashing Pumpkins, and Slash from Guns N’ Roses, among others. This ensemble promises to deliver an unparalleled heavy metal experience.
Ozzy Osbourne’s Final Bow
For Ozzy Osbourne, this marks the end of an era. Having faced numerous health challenges, including Parkinson’s disease, Osbourne has decided that this reunion will be his last live performance. The event will include a short solo set by Ozzy before he joins Black Sabbath for the final act, offering fans one last chance to see the Prince of Darkness in his element.
Charity and Legacy
All profits from “Back to the Beginning” will be shared equally among three charities: Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorns Children’s Hospice, reflecting the band’s commitment to giving back to the community and causes close to their hearts. This act underscores the legacy of Black Sabbath, not just as musicians but as philanthropists.
Tickets and Expectations
Tickets for the event go on sale from 10 am GMT on February 14, 2025, via LiveNation.uk. Given the historical significance and the lineup, tickets are expected to sell out rapidly. The concert is not just a musical event but a cultural phenomenon, celebrating decades of heavy metal history.
Conclusion
The Black Sabbath 2025 reunion concert is more than just a show; it’s a historic gathering of legends, a final salute to Ozzy Osbourne’s live career, and a testament to the band’s enduring influence on music. For fans, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the creators of heavy metal in what promises to be one of the greatest metal concerts ever assembled.
