James LoMenzo reveals Megadeth not invited to Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath’s last concert
Megadeth, one of the prominent names in the metal scene, faced an unexpected exclusion from Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath’s final concert, Back to the Beginning. A recent interview with Megadeth’s bassist James LoMenzo uncovered that the band was not extended an invitation to participate, unlike their counterparts Metallica, Slayer, and Anthrax. When journalist Charrie Foglio approached LoMenzo with a query regarding the absence of Megadeth at the event, his response was revealing. LoMenzo expressed, “The truth of the matter is, I don’t believe that anybody asked us, which was fine.”
In a surprising turn of events, despite being in Europe in close proximity to the show, the band’s attempts to secure a spot seemed fruitless. LoMenzo elaborated on the futile efforts made by their manager to secure a place at the event. However, Megadeth’s bassist maintained a diplomatic stance, acknowledging that “not everybody gets invited to every party.” Despite the band’s absence, there was no hint of controversy from their end.
LoMenzo’s insights shed light on the timeline leading up to the final show, revealing that he was privy to the plans some months in advance due to his interactions with Black Sabbath’s drummer, Bill Ward. It appeared that Ward’s regular communication with Ozzy Osbourne, who was unwell at the time, provided him with an early inkling of the impending event. LoMenzo also shared Ward’s concerns and excitement about the upcoming show, noting its significance for the members of Black Sabbath, particularly Ward.
Reflecting on the aftermath of the Back to the Beginning show, Megadeth remained contemplative and non-confrontational about their exclusion. LoMenzo emphasized that while their absence was conspicuous, it was not a point of contention. Following the concert, the tragic news of Ozzy Osbourne’s passing at the age of 76 sent shockwaves through the music industry. The loss of the iconic Ozzy Osbourne prompted a wave of tributes from across the music world, honoring the profound impact of the legendary artist on the metal genre and beyond.
In essence, Megadeth’s absence from the final Black Sabbath concert underscored the complexities of band dynamics and event arrangements within the metal community. The revelation of their non-involvement added an intriguing layer to the narrative surrounding the monumental event, highlighting the nuances of artist collaborations and invitations in the music industry. Despite the missed opportunity, Megadeth’s stance remained gracious and understanding, showcasing a spirit of acceptance amidst the twists and turns of the music industry landscape.