More than 50 years after their formation in Birmingham, Black Sabbath brought their legendary career to a close with an unforgettable farewell concert at Villa Park titled “Back to the Beginning.”
Curated by Tom Morello and hosted by Jason Momoa, the 10-hour spectacle was both a tribute and a celebration, uniting rock and metal’s biggest names in honor of the band that defined heavy metal.
Jason Momoa, serving as the day’s enthusiastic emcee, declared it “the most epic day in the history of heavy metal” and lived up to his words — snapping selfies, introducing bands, and even diving into the mosh pit during Pantera’s set. His energy set the tone for a day full of explosive performances and heartfelt tributes.
Among the standout moments was Jack Black’s powerful video performance of Ozzy Osbourne’s “Mr. Crowley,” accompanied by Roman Morello and Revel Ian. The cover stood out for its vocal accuracy and theatrical flair.
Lzzy Hale also delivered a searing performance of “Perry Mason” and “Ultimate Sin,” backed by guitar greats like Nuno Bettencourt and Jake E. Lee. Bettencourt, in particular, shone throughout the event with intricate, soulful guitar work — especially during a memorable collaboration with Disturbed on “Sweet Leaf.”
The star-studded “superjam” lineup, featuring Ronnie Wood, Steven Tyler, Billy Corgan, Papa V of Ghost, Travis Barker, and more, delivered an electrifying mix of Sabbath covers and rock classics, including “Breaking the Law,” “Walk This Way,” and “Whole Lotta Love.” Meanwhile, Yungblud’s emotional take on “Changes” added a softer, more reflective moment to the evening.
A drum circle featuring Travis Barker, Chad Smith, and Danny Carey was another high point, as the three powerhouse drummers pounded through a fiery version of “Symptom of the Universe.”
Tool later performed a gripping version of “Hand of Doom,” with Maynard James Keenan’s haunting vocals making it one of the day’s most intense performances.
Metallica and Guns N’ Roses rounded out the lineup before Sabbath’s final set, each band delivering a mix of originals and Sabbath tributes.
Metallica’s “Master of Puppets” and GnR’s “Paradise City” shared the spotlight with faithful Sabbath covers, underscoring the influence of Osbourne and his bandmates on generations of rockers.
The emotional peak came with Ozzy’s final performance, seated on a bat-themed throne due to health issues but still vocally strong.
Backed by Zakk Wylde for his solo set and rejoined by Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward for the last-ever Sabbath performance, Osbourne led the crowd through emotional renditions of “Crazy Train,” “Mama, I’m Coming Home,” “War Pigs,” and “Paranoid.”
Closing out a legendary chapter in music history, Black Sabbath’s final bow was a thunderous, emotional, and joy-filled tribute — a fitting farewell to the godfathers of heavy metal.
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