Former Black Sabbath bassist Rudy Sarzo revealed details about Ozzy Osbourne’s upcoming final performance in an interview with WDHAFM. The secret plans for the farewell show will take place on July 5th, 2025. These arrangements have been in development for nearly two years before last month’s confirmation.
“I got a text from Tom Morello. This was around October, November [of 2024]. It’s been in the works quietly behind [the scenes] for a year and a half by the time that it got confirmed last month,” Sarzo explained.
“But going back to me getting that text, I’m reading it and it’s basically, ‘Hi, Rudy. Tom [here]. Sharon and Ozzy asked me to see if you were available and wanted to participate in this event,'” he continued. “And at that moment, for so many reasons, it was like time stood still and brought me back, like, 40 years.”
Sarzo shared the confidential information only with his wife and guitarist Alex. Alex needed to know for scheduling purposes. “And he understood that this had to be kept quiet. Don’t tell anybody, but this is going on. And the reason why mainly I’m telling you, Alex, is because I need to block that date,” Sarzo added.
This carefully planned farewell show reveals several significant aspects of this historic event in rock music history.
Historic Reunion
The official website Ozzy.com confirms the show’s title as ‘Back to the Beginning.’ The event will reunite Black Sabbath’s original lineup. Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward will perform together for the first time in two decades.
The performance features support from legendary metal bands. Metallica, Slayer, and Pantera will join the lineup, creating one of heavy metal’s most significant gatherings.
Charitable Purpose
Ticketmaster UK has announced the concert’s charitable focus. All proceeds will benefit three organizations equally: Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorn Children’s Hospice.
The initiative holds special meaning due to Ozzy’s personal battle with Parkinson’s disease. His final performance will create a lasting impact through community support.
Venue And Significance
The Los Angeles Times highlights the venue’s deep personal connection. The band chose their hometown of Birmingham, England, for this historic event.
This location choice creates a fitting conclusion to Black Sabbath’s journey. The band will end their career where it began over five decades ago.
