Ozzy Osbourne, the iconic frontman of Black Sabbath, has announced his final concert, marking the end of an era for heavy metal fans worldwide. After a long and tumultuous road filled with health struggles, surgeries, and personal battles, Osbourne is preparing for his ultimate performance this summer. The Back To The Beginning concert, scheduled for July 5 at Villa Park in Birmingham, UK, will bring together original members of Black Sabbath for the first time in two decades, making this show not just a farewell for Ozzy but a monumental event for music history.
For those hoping to see Ozzy in full, energetic form, the reality may be different. While he promises to give his best effort, the 76-year-old musician has candidly admitted that his health issues, including Parkinson’s disease and complications from surgeries, may limit his ability to perform at the level he once did. Ozzy stated, “I’ll be there, and I’ll do the best I can. So all I can do is turn up.”
Ozzy’s Health Struggles: Parkinson’s Disease and Physical Limitations
Osbourne’s road to this final concert has not been an easy one. After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2020, his health has deteriorated significantly. The singer has faced numerous challenges, including difficulties walking, blood pressure issues, and stamina loss. Despite these setbacks, Ozzy is determined to give fans a memorable performance.
Ozzy has been undergoing intense training, including weightlifting, bike riding, and endurance training, to prepare for his final show. “It’s tough — I’ve been laid up for such a long time,” he confessed. “You wake up the next morning and find that something else has gone wrong. You begin to think this is never going to end.” His resilience and dedication are evident as he continues to push himself to regain the strength needed for this monumental event.
“I do weights, bike riding, I’ve got a guy living at my house who’s working with me,” Osbourne explained, noting that he is working hard to rebuild his strength. “It’s like starting all over again,” he admitted, reflecting on the challenges of regaining stamina after being sidelined by surgeries and health issues.
However, Ozzy acknowledged the reality of his condition, saying, “I’m used to doing two hours on stage, jumping and running around. I don’t think I’ll be doing much jumping or running around this time. I may be sitting down.”
The Back To The Beginning Concert: A Star-Studded Farewell
Ozzy’s final show promises to be an unforgettable experience, not just for him, but for fans worldwide. The concert will feature the original members of Black Sabbath—Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward—reuniting for the first time in 20 years. The legendary band will be joined by an incredible lineup of musicians, including Metallica, Slayer, Pantera, Lamb of God, Mastodon, Anthrax, and others, making it a true celebration of heavy metal’s finest.
Despite the health challenges, Ozzy remains excited about the show, with his wife and manager, Sharon Osbourne, stating that the concert was conceived to give him “a reason to get up in the morning.” Sharon revealed that the concert had a special emotional significance for Ozzy, especially after the long absence from touring due to health issues. “He’s so excited about this, about being with the guys again and all his friends,” she said.
Sharon Osbourne: The Emotional Impact of Ozzy’s Return to the Stage
Sharon Osbourne, who has been by Ozzy’s side throughout his recovery and health battles, emphasized the emotional weight of this final performance. “Ozzy didn’t have a chance to say goodbye to his friends, to his fans, and he feels there’s no full stop. This is his full stop,” she explained. The concert will not only be a significant moment for Ozzy but for his fans, as it marks the final chapter in a legendary career.
The concert is set to be more than just a farewell for Ozzy Osbourne. Proceeds from the show will benefit organizations such as Cure Parkinson’s, the Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorn Children’s Hospice, further cementing the concert’s significance as a charitable and emotional event.
A Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne’s Legacy
For Ozzy, this final concert represents a culmination of a lifetime in music. From his time with Black Sabbath to his solo career, Ozzy has become an icon, influencing generations of musicians and fans alike. Despite the physical challenges he faces, Ozzy’s commitment to giving his all for this final performance is a testament to his enduring passion for music and his fans.
With a lineup of incredible musicians, a heartfelt tribute to his legacy, and a show that promises to be both emotional and powerful, Back To The Beginning will undoubtedly be a memorable event for everyone involved. As Ozzy himself said, “I’m not dead. I’m still actively doing things.” Fans can expect a truly special performance, even if it means seeing their beloved rock star sitting down during some of his final songs.