Following statements by Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler, Black Sabbath founding drummer Bill Ward has weighed in with his first posting since the death of Ozzy Osbourne.
Through the X social media platform, Ward shared an old photo of himself with Osbourne while reflecting in the comment, “Where will I find you now? In the memories, our unspoken embraces, our missed phone calls, no, you’re forever in my heart. Deepest condolences to Sharon and all family members. RIP Sincere regrets to all the fans. Never goodbye. Thank you forever. Bill Ward.”
Bill Ward and Back to the Beginning
In 2011, Bill Ward was initially announced alongside the other founding members of Black Sabbath for a farewell reunion tour, which included plans to create new music. However, a contract dispute prevented Ward from participating in the reunion before it could commence.
The remaining members—Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, and Geezer Butler—moved forward without Ward, recording their studio album “13” with Rage Against the Machine’s Brad Wilk stepping in on drums. Ozzy’s solo band drummer, Tommy Clufetos, took over for the tour.
Black Sabbath performed what was believed to be their final show in early 2017, with Ward not returning to the group. Following Ozzy’s recent health challenges, he expressed a desire to return to the concert stage and began discussing the possibility of a reunion in 2024, mentioning that his biggest regret was Ward’s absence from the final performance.
A Historic Reunion
In early 2025, it was announced that Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward would reunite for a final show titled “Back to the Beginning.” This concert took place on July 5 in their hometown of Birmingham, England, culminating in a memorable performance that featured Ozzy playing a five-song solo set followed by a four-song finale with Black Sabbath.
What Did Black Sabbath Play in Their Final Performance?
The grand finale commenced with Ozzy’s solo set, which included classic hits such as “I Don’t Know,” “Mr. Crowley,” “Suicide Solution,” “Mama I’m Coming Home,” and “Crazy Train.”
Ozzy then joined Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward for a four-song set that featured iconic tracks: “War Pigs,” “N.I.B.,” “Iron Man,” and “Paranoid.”
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Gallery Credit: Chad Childers, Loudwire
Conclusion
The recent passing of Ozzy Osbourne has left a profound impact on the music community, particularly among the members of Black Sabbath. Bill Ward’s heartfelt tribute reflects the deep bonds formed over decades of collaboration. As fans look back on the legacy of Black Sabbath, the reunion and final performance serve as a poignant reminder of the band’s monumental influence in rock history.
FAQs
1. Why did Bill Ward leave the Black Sabbath reunion in 2011?
Bill Ward left the reunion due to a contract dispute, which prevented him from participating in the planned farewell tour and new music recording.
2. Who played drums on Black Sabbath’s album “13”?
Brad Wilk from Rage Against the Machine played drums on Black Sabbath’s album “13,” while Tommy Clufetos handled the touring duties.
3. When was Black Sabbath’s final performance?
Black Sabbath’s final performance took place on July 5, 2025, in Birmingham, England, as part of their reunion show “Back to the Beginning.”
4. What songs did Ozzy Osbourne perform during his solo set at the final concert?
Ozzy Osbourne’s solo set included “I Don’t Know,” “Mr. Crowley,” “Suicide Solution,” “Mama I’m Coming Home,” and “Crazy Train.”
5. What songs did Black Sabbath perform at their last show?
During their final show, Black Sabbath performed “War Pigs,” “N.I.B.,” “Iron Man,” and “Paranoid.”
