Black Sabbath, the legendary pioneers of heavy metal, bid farewell to their fans during a monumental concert at the NEC Arena in Birmingham in 2017. The show, which attracted a sold-out crowd of 16,000, marked the end of an extensive 81-date world tour and celebrated the band’s storied career since their formation in 1968.
The concert featured a setlist that highlighted the band’s early classics, including "War Pigs," "N.I.B," and their self-titled track "Black Sabbath." The performance culminated with their iconic hit "Paranoid," which has become synonymous with their legacy. Lead vocalist Ozzy Osbourne expressed heartfelt gratitude to the audience, acknowledging the vital role that fans have played in the band’s journey. "We wouldn’t survive if it wasn’t for the fan base," he remarked, welcoming both longtime supporters and new fans alike.
Following this farewell show, Osbourne continued to pursue solo projects, releasing two albums, "Ordinary Man" and "Patient Number 9." However, his health has been a concern, as he has faced significant challenges since suffering a spinal injury in 2003, which was aggravated by a fall in 2019. In 2020, he publicly shared his diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, which led him to largely step back from touring. His last performance was during the closing ceremony of the Commonwealth Games in 2022.
Despite these setbacks, Osbourne has expressed a desire to return to the stage. In a recent interview with Rolling Stone UK, he shared his determination to perform again if his health allows. "I’m taking it one day at a time, and if I can perform again, I will," he stated. He emphasized his unwillingness to perform half-heartedly, stating, "I’m not going up there in a wheelchair."
As fans await news of his potential return, Osbourne’s legacy remains firmly intact, with Black Sabbath’s influence on rock music echoing through the decades. The band’s final concert was not just an end, but a celebration of their groundbreaking contributions to the music world and the deep connection forged with their audience over nearly five decades.