Black Sabbath’s Final Bow: A Historic Homecoming Celebration in Birmingham

A Momentous Reunion and Farewell

The original Black Sabbath lineup – Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward – made history by reuniting for their final performance titled ‘Back to the Beginning’ at Villa Park. The event featured Ozzy Osbourne performing a solo set before joining Black Sabbath for his final bow.

The landmark concert included performances from metal legends including Metallica, Slayer, Pantera, and others. All profits from the event were donated to charitable causes including Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorn Children’s Hospice.

City-Wide Celebration of Musical Legacy

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery hosted a free exhibition titled ‘Working Class Hero,’ running until September 2025, showcasing Ozzy’s most prestigious awards, including Grammy Awards, MTV honours, and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame recognition, alongside rare photographs and videos documenting his journey.

The city also features a free outdoor Black Sabbath photography exhibition in Victoria Square, displaying rare archive images of the band members, while a spectacular 40-metre tribute mural by Mr Murals near New Street station has become a popular spot for fans.

A Lasting Impact on Music History

Black Sabbath, formed in Birmingham in 1968, revolutionized music by pioneering heavy metal through their distinctive sound featuring occult themes and down-tuned guitars. Their first three albums – Black Sabbath, Paranoid, and Master of Reality – were commercially successful and are considered foundational to heavy metal’s development.

The band’s influence on modern music is undeniable, having put Birmingham on the global cultural map. Their legacy continues to inspire new generations, with the current celebrations serving as a testament to their enduring impact on music and culture.