Big Rig Report for 8/21 on 102.5 KZOK

On July, 2025, Black Sabbath celebrated their final gig at Villa Park, generating an impressive £30 million impact on the West Midlands economy and £33.8 million on the UK economy. The event, which sold out quickly with 42,000 tickets, attracted 20% international fans. A study conducted by the University of Birmingham highlighted the significant contribution of Black Sabbath and frontman Ozzy Osbourne to their region and hometown, underscoring their impact on the economy and charity fundraising efforts.

Metallica’s drummer, Lars Ulrich, recently praised Deep Purple’s 1972 live album “Made In Japan” as the “best hard rock live album ever.” The drummer conveyed his admiration in a three-minute video, acknowledging the re-issue of the album and highlighting the uniqueness of the songs featured on it. The new edition includes all three of their August 1972 concerts, offering a fresh perspective on their classic material.

LINKIN PARK is responding to high demand with the addition of three new shows to their 2026 Australia tour as part of their From Zero World Tour. With performances scheduled in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney in March, the band aims to meet the desires of their fans down under. Ticket sales for the Australian dates open on August 22, offering fans a chance to witness their favorite band in action.

Sammy Hagar recently responded positively to David Lee Roth’s story about a dream involving Eddie Van Halen, emphasizing the cordial nature of their interaction. Hagar dismissed social media speculation, stating that Roth’s story actually served as a compliment and a positive moment between them. The interaction highlighted the camaraderie between the musicians, showcasing a moment of unity and understanding.

Oasis’ Noel Gallagher expressed his amazement at the warm reception to their reunion tour, lauding his brother Liam and the band’s energetic performances. Gallagher acknowledged the emotional and physical challenges of touring but emphasized the joy of being back on stage with his brother. The tour’s success has delighted fans worldwide, with the band set to continue performing and enchant audiences with their music.

Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening extends their tour celebrating the 50th anniversary of Led Zeppelin’s “Physical Graffiti” album, adding more than two dozen dates for fans to enjoy. Initially planning 50 shows to honor the album’s milestone, the band now aims for 70 memorable performances across the country. The band’s electrifying performances pay tribute to the iconic rock group, captivating audiences and keeping the spirit of Led Zeppelin alive.

Cheap Trick announces additional dates for their 2025 tour, including four shows with Heart in November and December. The band is set to join Heart on their “Royal Flush Tour,” traveling to various cities across the country. Cheap Trick’s frontman, Robin Zander, shared insights into their upcoming album “All Washed Up,” featuring a mix of songs that mirror the band’s signature style and diversity.

John Fogerty’s journey to reclaim the rights to Creedence Clearwater Revival’s catalogue culminates in the release of Legacy: The Creedence Clearwater Revival Years, featuring rerecordings of 20 CCR classics. Fogerty’s emotional connection to his songs and his ownership of the band’s creative legacy underscore the significance of the album. Despite legal battles, Fogerty remains dedicated to his craft, eager to explore new avenues of creativity and musical expression.

Teddi Mellencamp, daughter of John Mellencamp, shares the strength of her bond with her father amidst her battle with stage 4 cancer. Mellencamp highlights the support and care she receives from her father, emphasizing the importance of their daily communication and mutual understanding. John Mellencamp’s unwavering support during his daughter’s health struggles showcases the power of family and love in challenging times.

Furthermore, Blackberry Smoke’s tribute to Bad Company in their upcoming album Can’t Get Enough: A Tribute To Bad Company, featuring Slash, Def Leppard, and others, pays homage to the legendary rock band. The single “Run With The Pack,” including Mastodon’s Brann Dailor, captures the essence of Bad Company’s music, resonating with fans and fellow musicians alike. The tribute album promises a compelling recreation of classic rock songs, celebrating the enduring legacy of Bad Company and their influence on generations of rock enthusiasts.