The rock world is in mourning. The death of Ozzy Osbourne, announced this Tuesday, July 22, has shaken millions of fans around the globe. The legendary former Black Sabbath frontman left this world at the age of 76, after a life marked by excesses, success, and an unforgettable legacy. But how was his final appearance on stage? Which songs did he choose to say goodbye? Here’s a look back at the last concert of the ‘Prince of Darkness.’
An Emotional Farewell: “Back to the Beginning”
Ozzy Osbourne’s final concert was no ordinary show. On July 5, 2025, Villa Park Stadium in Birmingham—his hometown—was the chosen venue for a historic event: “Back to the Beginning,” a charity show that also marked his definitive farewell to the stage.
That concert brought together legends like Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Pantera, Tool, and Slayer, among others. All of them paid tribute to a man who defined heavy metal like few others. Under the musical direction of Tom Morello, the event became a true celebration of Ozzy’s legacy.
Ozzy, Seated on a Throne but Standing in Spirit
Struggling with Parkinson’s disease and chronic spinal problems, Ozzy appeared on stage seated on a metal throne. His mobility was limited, but his spirit remained unbroken. The 45,000 people in attendance erupted into applause when the ‘Madman’ uttered his now-iconic phrase: “Let’s go crazy one last time!”
That moment, streamed to nearly six million viewers worldwide, instantly became a part of rock history.
The death of Ozzy Osbourne, announced this Tuesday, July 22, has shaken millions of fans around the globe. (Photo: EFE)
The Farewell Setlist: Five Anthems and One Final Goodbye with Black Sabbath
Ozzy performed five of his most iconic solo tracks in a special format, accompanied by musicians close to his solo career:
- I Don’t Know
- Mr. Crowley
- Suicide Solution
- Mama, I’m Coming Home
- Crazy Train
After this first part of the show, he surprised everyone by reuniting with his former Black Sabbath bandmates—Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler—for a spectacular finale, performing:
- War Pigs
- Iron Man
- Paranoid
The ovation seemed endless. The final chord of “Paranoid” officially marked the end of the ‘Prince of Darkness’’s live career.
An Eternal Legacy
Ozzy Osbourne didn’t just close a musical chapter: he closed a piece of heavy metal history. That final concert raised over 140 million pounds, entirely donated to charitable causes such as Parkinson’s research, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and local hospices.
His last performance, far from being a somber farewell, was a celebration of life, music, and resilience.
Today, as the world mourns his passing, his final appearance echoes as a sonic testament to what Ozzy always was: a legend. A ‘Prince of Darkness’ who, until the very end, knew how to light the way for rock.
