The Back to the Beginning concert has electrified the global rock and metal community, as Black Sabbath’s original lineup reunites for one final, unforgettable performance. On July 5, 2025, Villa Park in Birmingham transformed into the epicenter of heavy metal history, hosting a sold-out event that not only marks Ozzy Osbourne’s last-ever live appearance but also serves as a powerful tribute to the band’s legendary legacy.
Back to the Beginning Concert: The Final Bow
The Back to the Beginning concert is more than just a show—it’s a full-day festival celebrating nearly six decades of Black Sabbath’s influence on the world of music. Gates at Villa Park opened at 11am, with the first acts hitting the stage at 1pm. The anticipation reached a fever pitch as fans from across the globe gathered, knowing they were about to witness a once-in-a-lifetime event.
Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward—the original architects of heavy metal—reunited on stage for the first time in 20 years. This emotional farewell, hosted by Hollywood star and metal enthusiast Jason Momoa, brought together an all-star lineup of rock and metal legends, including Metallica, Slayer, Guns N’ Roses, Tool, Pantera, Gojira, Anthrax, Halestorm, and many more.
Key Point Summary
- Black Sabbath’s Back to the Beginning concert took place July 5, 2025, at Villa Park, Birmingham.
- Original lineup reunited for their final performance.
- Ozzy Osbourne delivered his last-ever live set.
- The event featured a star-studded lineup: Metallica, Slayer, Guns N’ Roses, Tool, Pantera, and others.
- Jason Momoa hosted; Tom Morello served as musical director.
- Tickets sold out instantly, but a global livestream allowed fans worldwide to join in.
- All proceeds benefit Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorn Children’s Hospice.
A Star-Studded Lineup at the Back to the Beginning Concert
The Back to the Beginning concert’s lineup read like a Hall of Fame roster. Metallica, Slayer, Pantera, Gojira, Halestorm, Alice In Chains, Lamb of God, Anthrax, Mastodon, and Rival Sons all delivered powerhouse sets throughout the day. Supergroups featuring icons such as Slash, Billy Corgan, Tom Morello, and Jonathan Davis performed unique collaborations, adding to the event’s sense of occasion.
The concert was more than a farewell; it was a celebration of the genre Black Sabbath helped create. Each artist paid tribute to the band’s enduring influence, with performances that spanned the full spectrum of heavy music. The energy in Villa Park was electric, as generations of fans came together to honor the godfathers of metal.
Back to the Beginning Concert: Livestream and Global Reach
With tickets selling out in under 16 minutes, organizers ensured that fans worldwide could still be part of the Back to the Beginning concert. A global livestream, available with a two-hour delay, allowed viewers to experience every moment from the comfort of their homes. The stream kicked off at 3pm British Time, with access available for 48 hours, ensuring that no one missed out on this historic occasion.
The cost to access the livestream was set at £24.99, with all proceeds going to three charities close to the band’s heart: Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorn Children’s Hospice. This charitable angle added depth to the event, turning a farewell into a force for good.
Inside the Back to the Beginning Concert Experience
Fans attending the Back to the Beginning concert were treated to a festival-like atmosphere, with the gates opening early and a strict bag policy in place to ensure safety. The stadium was filled with excitement and nostalgia, as Black Sabbath’s music echoed through the grounds where the band’s journey began in 1968.
Rehearsals in the days leading up to the concert saw heavy metal royalty arriving in Birmingham, with stars like Anthrax’s Scott Ian spotted preparing for the big night. The sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among the artists was palpable, reflecting Black Sabbath’s profound impact on the music industry.
Ozzy Osbourne’s Emotional Farewell
For Ozzy Osbourne, the Back to the Beginning concert was deeply personal. In interviews leading up to the event, he described it as his “final encore” and a chance to thank fans for their unwavering support. Performing at Villa Park held special significance for Ozzy, who recalled childhood memories of the stadium and the city that shaped his life and career.
His solo set, followed by the final Black Sabbath performance, was a poignant moment for both the band and their fans. As the last notes rang out, it was clear that the Back to the Beginning concert was not just an end, but a celebration of a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
Why the Back to the Beginning Concert Matters
The Back to the Beginning concert is a milestone in music history. It brought together the pioneers of heavy metal, a pantheon of supporting artists, and fans from every corner of the globe. By supporting important charities, the event also demonstrated the power of music to effect positive change.
For those who missed the live experience, the global livestream and extensive social media coverage ensured that the Back to the Beginning concert will be remembered and relived for years to come.
Don’t miss your chance to watch the Back to the Beginning concert stream and be part of heavy metal history. Secure your access now and join fans worldwide in celebrating Black Sabbath’s monumental farewell.