Black Sabbath Returns to Their Roots

The concert at Villa Park in Birmingham on a Friday evening in July 2025 marked a significant moment in heavy metal history. Anticipation was high, and fans gathered with excitement in the air. The absence of Ozzy Osbourne was palpable, but his legacy loomed large over the event.

The venue itself was a fitting setting for such a monumental occasion. As Mastodon took the stage, the crowd was treated to a ten-hour spectacle of rock royalty paying homage to Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne. Each band delivered their own unique take on classic Sabbath songs, creating a sense of camaraderie and celebration among performers and fans alike.

One standout performance was the Supergroup curated by Tom Morello, featuring a lineup of legendary musicians. Their renditions of classic Sabbath and Ozzy tracks were nothing short of spectacular, leaving the audience in awe. The emotional high point of the evening came with a soulful rendition of “Changes,” featuring Yungblud and Nuno Bettencourt, a performance that moved many to tears.

Alice in Chains and Gojira kept the momentum going with electrifying sets that energized the crowd. The second Supergroup, featuring icons like Billy Corgan and Steven Tyler, took the stage by storm, delivering unforgettable renditions of metal classics.

Tool and Slayer closed out the night with powerful performances that showcased their raw energy and musical prowess. Slayer’s choice to perform “Wicked World” from Sabbath’s debut album was a fitting tribute to the band that paved the way for generations of metal musicians.

Overall, the Black Sabbath concert at Villa Park was a testament to the enduring legacy of the band and the genre they helped define. As fans left the venue, they carried with them memories of a night filled with music, camaraderie, and the unrelenting spirit of heavy metal. The event was a fitting tribute to Ozzy Osbourne and a celebration of the timeless music that continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.