Black Sabbath Reunites for Historic Performance at Back to the Beginning Concert

In a momentous occasion for fans of heavy metal, Black Sabbath’s classic lineup—Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward—reunited for their first live performance together in 20 years at the Back to the Beginning concert held at Villa Park in Birmingham, England. The legendary band’s four-song set captivated an audience eager to witness the return of the godfathers of heavy metal.

Setlist Highlights

The highly anticipated set began with the iconic anthem “War Pigs,” setting the tone for a nostalgic journey through their celebrated discography. Following this, the band took fans back to their self-titled debut album with the groovy, bass-heavy track “N.I.B.” They then delivered a powerful one-two punch with “Iron Man” and the timeless classic “Paranoid” from their sophomore album, Paranoid.

Setlist for the Reunion Performance

• 1. “War Pigs”
• 2. “N.I.B.”
• 3. “Iron Man”
• 4. “Paranoid”

A Prelude of Solo Performances

Before Black Sabbath took the stage, Ozzy Osbourne treated the audience to a five-song solo set that included fan favorites such as “Mr. Crowley,” “Mama I’m Coming Home,” and “Crazy Train.” This performance was believed to be part of his farewell tour, adding emotional weight to the evening.

A Long-Awaited Reunion

The reunion was particularly significant as the band had not performed together since 2005. Bill Ward, who has faced health challenges, notably sat out the recording of Black Sabbath’s 2013 album, 13, as well as subsequent tours. This concert marked a poignant return for the original members, encapsulating a powerful blend of nostalgia and celebration.

Star-Studded Event

The Back to the Beginning concert featured a plethora of rock and metal heavyweights, including Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Slayer, Gojira, Alice in Chains, and Lamb of God. Many performers paid tribute to Black Sabbath through various supergroup collaborations, showcasing the band’s enduring influence on the genre.

Watch Black Sabbath’s Back to the Beginning Intro and ‘War Pigs’ Snippet

Conclusion

The reunion of Black Sabbath’s classic lineup at the Back to the Beginning concert not only thrilled long-time fans but also reaffirmed the band’s pivotal role in the evolution of heavy metal music. As they delivered an iconic setlist that spanned their legendary career, the performance served as a reminder of the band’s lasting legacy and the profound impact they have had on generations of musicians and fans alike.

FAQs

When was the last time Black Sabbath performed together before this concert?

The last performance of the classic lineup took place in 2005.

What songs did Ozzy Osbourne perform during his solo set?

Ozzy performed classics such as “Mr. Crowley,” “Mama I’m Coming Home,” and “Crazy Train.”

Who else performed at the Back to the Beginning concert?

Other performers included Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Slayer, Gojira, Alice in Chains, and Lamb of God.

Is this considered Ozzy Osbourne’s farewell concert?

Yes, it is believed to be part of his farewell tour.