Ozzy Osbourne Prepares for Final Show with Black Sabbath
Legendary rock musician Ozzy Osbourne is gearing up for his last concert with Black Sabbath, scheduled for July 5 at Villa Park in Birmingham. This momentous event, titled “Back to the Beginning,” will feature an impressive lineup of metal heavyweights, including Metallica, Tool, Slayer, and Anthrax, under the musical direction of Tom Morello.
Health Challenges and Determination
In a recent interview with The Guardian, Osbourne, who is currently battling Parkinson’s disease, expressed his commitment to performing despite ongoing health concerns. “I’ll be there, and I’ll do the best I can,” he stated, emphasizing his determination to participate in the historic evening.
Inspired by Family
The idea for this charity concert was driven by Osbourne’s wife, Sharon, who aimed to motivate him during a particularly difficult period. “You wake up the next morning and find that something else has gone wrong. You begin to think this is never going to end,” Osbourne reflected, confirming that Sharon suggested this event to give him something to look forward to.
Reuniting the Classic Lineup
The concert marks a reunion of Black Sabbath’s original lineup, including guitarist Tony Iommi, bassist Geezer Butler, and drummer Bill Ward, alongside Osbourne. According to Osbourne, the dynamics among the band members resemble a marriage: “you have a row with the wife, but then you make up again.”
Planning the Performance
As the band prepares for what they anticipate to be Osbourne’s final live performance, careful considerations are being made regarding the staging, given Osbourne’s physical limitations. Butler mentioned the pressures they feel, acknowledging his anxiety over the concert’s outcome. “It’s important that we leave a great impression, since it’s the final time that people will experience us live,” he remarked.
Limited Performance and Preparation
Osbourne clarified that fans should not expect a full set, noting, “We’re only playing a couple of songs each.” He aims to prevent attendees from feeling shortchanged, highlighting that listeners can expect only a sample of what the band has offered over the years.
The musician has undertaken a rigorous preparation regimen in advance of the concert. “I do weights, bike riding, I’ve got a guy living at my house who’s working with me,” he explained. Despite his health challenges, including issues with blood pressure and mobility, he remains resolute about his performance: “I’ll be there, and I’ll do the best I can.”
Looking Toward the Future
While Osbourne expresses a desire to keep performing, he acknowledges that this concert will signify the end of his live career. He shared reflections on his journey, stating, “I lived on the road for 50-odd years, and I’ve kind of got used to not picking up my bags and getting on the bus again.” Osbourne emphasizes the importance of spending time with his family and grandchildren, planning to embrace a quieter lifestyle after this milestone performance.