BREAKING: Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi ad…read more.
As Black Sabbath gears up for their farewell performance, Back to the Beginning, scheduled for July 5 at Villa Park in Birmingham, guitarist Tony Iommi has opened up about his nervousness surrounding the event. In a recent interview with Music Week, Iommi admitted that “not knowing what to expect” is what troubles him most.
Though the legendary band is no stranger to live shows, this final performance brings unique challenges. It includes a large-scale production, major guest appearances, and a worldwide spotlight. “When we used to tour, we’d rehearse and perform with just the band,” Iommi explained. “This event has many more elements, and that brings unpredictability.”
The concert is set to reunite the original members—Ozzy Osbourne, Geezer Butler, Bill Ward, and Iommi—for the first time in two decades. They’ll be joined by a powerhouse lineup including Metallica, Pantera, Slayer, Alice in Chains, Halestorm, and others, making it a truly historic metal event.
Concerns have also been raised about frontman Ozzy Osbourne’s health. After battling Parkinson’s disease and undergoing multiple spinal surgeries, Ozzy is confirmed to appear but won’t perform a full set. Instead, he’ll take part in select moments during the show. His wife and manager, Sharon Osbourne, has emphasized the emotional weight of this final appearance, calling it a tribute to both Ozzy’s career and the fans who’ve supported him for decades.
Proceeds from the show will benefit Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorn Children’s Hospice, adding a charitable note to the farewell.
While anticipation is high, Iommi’s honest reflection on the unknown aspects of the event shows how deeply the band cares about making their final chapter meaningful for fans and themselves.
