Blogger & Scene Journalist

OZZY: THE DEFINITIVE FAREWELL IN BIRMINGHAM

By Dayanne Araujo Blogger & Scene Journalist

On Saturday, July 5, 2025, at Villa Park in Birmingham, Ozzy Osbourne made his final live appearance, officially ending his stage career — and closing the curtain on his journey with Black Sabbath. The farewell took place in his hometown, in a night filled with emotion, celebration, and the closure of a legacy that began nearly six decades ago.

A Historic Presence

Seated on his iconic bat-shaped throne, 76‑year‑old Ozzy delivered a moving solo set. Despite his physical limitations, he performed classics like I Don’t Know, Mr. Crowley, Mama I’m Coming Home, and Crazy Train — proving that the Prince of Darkness still commands the stage with presence and fire.

Reunion After 20 Years

After his solo set, Ozzy was joined by the original Black Sabbath lineup — Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward — for a long-awaited reunion. They played four of the band’s most iconic tracks, including War Pigs, Iron Man, and the powerful closer Paranoid. It was the first time in 20 years that the classic lineup played together.

A Legendary Night

The event, titled “Back to the Beginning”, became more than just a concert — it was a landmark celebration of heavy metal. With performances by Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Slayer, Pantera, Tool, Anthrax, Mastodon, and many others, it brought over 40,000 fans to Villa Park, with millions more watching the live broadcast. The event was hosted by Jason Momoa, with surprise tributes and emotional messages from artists like Jonathan Davis, Billy Idol, AC/DC, Def Leppard, Fred Durst.

Ozzy’s Eternal Legacy

Ozzy Osbourne was never just a frontman. He became the voice of heavy metal, a symbol of rebellion, and an icon of authenticity. Since forming Black Sabbath in Birmingham, he gave sound to the struggles of the outcasts and forged a new musical path — blending darkness, emotion, and power. His solo career only solidified his status as one of the greatest to ever grace the stage.

The Iconic Image

To close this chapter, one unforgettable image sums it all up: Ozzy, sitting on a toilet, cigarette in hand, pants around his ankles. It’s unfiltered, raw, and real — just like the man himself. As chaotic as it is legendary, it reflects the very essence of Ozzy: a man who lived (and ended) his journey on his own terms.

To celebrate Ozzy’s final bow, here’s a 7-hour playlist of his greatest hits — including Black Sabbath classics and unforgettable solo tracks