Music: Black Sabbath Reunites for One Final Bow at ‘Back to the Beginning’ Show in Birmingham

Ozzy Osbourne performs at Back to the Beginning. Credit: Ross Halfin – Image Provided by Gibson

Written from press release

BIRMINGHAM, U.K. — July 10, 2025 — In a momentous night for heavy metal fans across the globe, Black Sabbath’s original lineup reunited for one last time during a historic farewell concert, Back to the Beginning, held Saturday at Villa Park in their hometown of Birmingham. The sold-out, one-night-only event featured Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward performing together for the first time in more than 20 years.

The celebration, billed as the final Black Sabbath show, drew some of the biggest names in rock and metal for an all-star tribute to the pioneers of heavy metal. Ozzy opened the night with a brief solo set before the band came together for their emotional final performance.

“This was a once-in-a-lifetime event,” said Cesar Gueikian, CEO of Gibson, which partnered with the show. “It was beautiful to witness the artist community come together to honor Black Sabbath. We were honored to support the event and contribute to great causes.”

Gibson played a key role backstage, hosting a lounge area for artists and guests, complete with guitars, a photo booth, and a collaboration with Indian Motorcycles. The brand also donated two Gibson SG Standard guitars—Tony Iommi’s signature axe—which were signed by performers and auctioned off at ozzyauction.co.uk. Proceeds from the charity auction benefit Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorns Children’s Hospice, three organizations close to the Osbourne family.

Photos and videos from the night showed legends like Slash, Kirk Hammett, Jason Momoa, Lzzy Hale, Ronnie Wood, Steven Tyler, and many more joining the celebration. Gibson also unveiled a customized Indian Sport Chief RT and matching SG guitar as part of the auction items.

Music Director Tom Morello described the concert as “the greatest heavy metal show ever.” The massive lineup included performances from Metallica, Slayer, Guns N’ Roses, Pantera, Gojira, Alice in Chains, Halestorm, Lamb of God, Anthrax, and Mastodon. A supergroup of rock icons including Zakk Wylde, Billy Corgan, Duff McKagan, Jonathan Davis, and others took the stage in tribute.

Formed in Birmingham in 1968, Black Sabbath went on to define a genre, selling more than 75 million records and becoming one of the most influential bands in music history.

“Back to the Beginning” marked the end of an era, closing the curtain on a legacy that helped shape the sound of rock for over five decades.

Poster Provided by Gibson

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