We’re just one day away from what promises to be a monumental event in metal history—the Back to the Beginning concert at Villa Park in Birmingham, England. This concert is a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Ozzy Osbourne and the iconic band Black Sabbath.
The All-Star Lineup
The excitement surrounding this event is palpable, and the recently released official photo showcases an impressive roster of musicians who will pay their respects. This lineup is truly a testament to the far-reaching influence of Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath, featuring artists from various heavy music subgenres.
A Glimpse of the Photo
Captured by renowned photographer Ross Halfin, the image resembles a nostalgic class photo as musicians gather on risers at different levels. The camaraderie among these heavyweights underscores the immense respect they hold for the legacy of Black Sabbath. Take a look at the remarkable lineup below:
Back to the Beginning concert lineup photo
Ross Halfin / Live Nation
Identifying the Stars
For those who might not recognize every face, here’s a breakdown of the top and bottom rows of musicians in the lineup:
Top Row (Left to Right)
- Rex Brown (Pantera)
- Tobias Forge (Ghost)
- David Draiman (Disturbed)
- James Hetfield (Metallica)
- Tony Iommi (Black Sabbath)
- Steven Tyler (Aerosmith)
- Ozzy Osbourne (Black Sabbath)
- Robert Trujillo (Metallica)
- Philip Anselmo (Pantera)
- Geezer Butler (Black Sabbath)
- Sammy Hagar
- Kirk Hammett (Metallica)
Bottom Row (Left to Right)
- Mike Inez (Alice in Chains)
- Zakk Wylde (Ozzy Osbourne/Pantera)
- Bill Ward (Black Sabbath)
- Lars Ulrich (Metallica)
- Billy Corgan (Smashing Pumpkins)
Notable Absences
While the lineup is undeniably star-studded, there are several notable musicians missing from the photo. Fans can look forward to performances from artists such as members of Slayer, Gojira, Halestorm, Guns N’ Roses, Lamb of God, Anthrax, Mastodon, and Rival Sons, who are all set to join the event.
Additionally, several artists initially advertised, including Tom Morello, Fred Durst, K.K. Downing, and emcee Jason Momoa, did not appear in the photo. Their contributions are eagerly anticipated, further enhancing the significance of this historic concert.
How to Watch the Concert
For those unable to attend in person, the Back to the Beginning concert will be available via a global livestream, allowing fans around the world to join in this extraordinary moment. The raw livestream is scheduled to commence at 3 PM BST on July 5. Purchasing access to the livestream grants fans the privilege of watching the concert in its entirety for an additional 48 hours.
Tickets for the livestream are available for purchase on the Back to the Beginning website.
Conclusion
The Back to the Beginning concert is poised to be a landmark event, celebrating the extraordinary legacy of Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath. With an all-star lineup and a global audience tuning in, this tribute promises to be a showcase of musical talent and respect for one of metal’s greatest influences. As fans across the globe prepare to partake in this historic celebration, it’s evident that the spirit of Black Sabbath remains alive and well within the hearts of musicians and fans alike.
FAQs
What is the Back to the Beginning concert?
The Back to the Beginning concert is a tribute event honoring the legacy of Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath, featuring an all-star lineup of heavy music artists.
When and where will the concert take place?
The concert will be held at Villa Park in Birmingham, England, with the livestream starting at 3 PM BST on July 5.
How can I watch the concert livestream?
Fans can access the concert through a pay-per-view livestream, available for purchase on the Back to the Beginning website.
Will the concert be available for viewing after the live event?
Yes, those who purchase the livestream will have exclusive access to watch the concert for 48 hours after the live event concludes.