On July 5, 2025, Birmingham, England, will host the Back to the Beginning festival, marking the definitive farewell of Black Sabbath with its original lineup: Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward. Organized by Sharon Osbourne, Ozzy’s wife and manager, the event faced a setback when a band was removed from the lineup due to a heated dispute between Sharon and the group’s manager. Revealed in an interview with Metal Hammer, the decision sparked speculation about the excluded band and reignited discussions about Sharon’s influential yet polarizing role in the heavy metal scene. The festival, with a charitable focus, will donate all profits to Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorn Children’s Hospice, though the controversy has already drawn significant attention.
The exclusion news stirred fans, who speculated about bands like Tool and Iron Maiden, both later confirmed as unrelated to the cut. Sharon, known for her unyielding demeanor, stated the decision stemmed from serious disagreements but withheld the band’s identity or further details about the manager involved. The event’s lineup remains robust, featuring Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Pantera, and guests like Slash and Tom Morello, ensuring its status as a landmark in heavy metal history.
This incident also recalled past conflicts, notably Sharon’s feud with Iron Maiden’s Bruce Dickinson during the 2005 Ozzfest. In the Metal Hammer interview, Sharon clarified that Iron Maiden was not the excluded band but revisited the 2005 episode, where she orchestrated an egg-throwing retaliation against Dickinson for publicly criticizing Ozzy.
A history of heavy metal feuds
Sharon Osbourne has never shied away from controversy. Her career as a manager, defined by bold decisions, has led to clashes with numerous industry figures. The Back to the Beginning festival, intended as a celebration of Black Sabbath’s legacy, gained an unexpected twist with the removal of an undisclosed band. Sharon described the dispute with the band’s manager as one of the worst experiences in her recent career, underscoring its severity.
In her account, the feud involved lies and disrespect, prompting her to swiftly exclude the band. Despite pressure from fans and media, Sharon stood firm, stating she disregards criticism from those outside her inner circle. This reflects her management style, which has made her both a powerhouse and a divisive figure in heavy metal.
- Past clashes: Sharon’s 2005 Ozzfest feud with Bruce Dickinson saw her cut Iron Maiden’s sound and organize a barrage of eggs and beans in response to his remarks.
- Reputation: Her refusal to bow to pressure has cemented her as a formidable yet polarizing figure.
- Current mystery: By withholding the band’s name, Sharon keeps fans guessing, fueling online discussions.
The exclusion, while not altering the festival’s core, highlights the complex dynamics behind organizing such events. Sharon’s decision to keep details under wraps may aim to minimize further controversy or protect the event’s charitable image.
Details of Back to the Beginning
Set for Villa Park stadium in Birmingham, Black Sabbath’s hometown, the Back to the Beginning festival on July 5, 2025, will feature the band’s original lineup for the last time, a reunion not seen in two decades. Alongside Black Sabbath’s performance, the event includes a solo set by Ozzy Osbourne, who plans to retire from live performances due to health issues, including Parkinson’s and spinal injuries.
The festival’s lineup is a who’s-who of heavy metal, with acts like:
- Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, and Slayer, genre veterans.
- Modern bands like Gojira, Halestorm, and Lamb of God.
- Special guests, including Billy Corgan of Smashing Pumpkins and Wolfgang Van Halen.
Its charitable mission is central, with proceeds supporting Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorn Children’s Hospice, which provides palliative care for children. Tom Morello, of Rage Against the Machine, oversees the musical direction, ensuring a seamless blend of legacy and innovation.
Speculation and clarifications
Sharon’s announcement about the band’s exclusion triggered widespread speculation. Early rumors pointed to Tool, but Loudwire confirmed the band remains in the lineup. Iron Maiden was also mentioned, though Sharon clarified they were never involved, citing a scheduling conflict with their own nearby show.
The Iron Maiden reference rekindled memories of the 2005 Ozzfest incident. Bruce Dickinson’s onstage criticism of Ozzy and “The Osbournes” reality show provoked Sharon to retaliate with eggs, beans, and sound disruptions. In her recent interview, she recounted the episode with a mix of amusement and lingering resentment, though she emphasized her respect for Iron Maiden, excluding Dickinson.
The secrecy surrounding the excluded band fuels fan theories. Some suspect contractual or legal issues, while others believe Sharon’s silence aims to keep the focus on the festival’s positive aspects. The lack of clarity continues to drive debates across social media and fan forums.
Behind-the-scenes challenges
Organizing Back to the Beginning involves navigating logistical hurdles and complex negotiations. Sharon revealed difficulties in securing some acts, with Judas Priest and AC/DC’s Angus Young declining due to scheduling conflicts. Judas Priest is set to perform with Scorpions in Germany, while AC/DC will be touring Europe.
The band’s exclusion due to personal disputes underscores Sharon’s significant influence over artistic decisions. Her extensive experience, from creating Ozzfest to managing Ozzy’s career, gives her unparalleled authority, but it also invites scrutiny. The manager feud illustrates how personal dynamics can shape high-profile events.
Black Sabbath’s enduring legacy
Formed in 1968, Black Sabbath is credited with pioneering heavy metal. Albums like “Paranoid” and “Master of Reality” introduced heavy riffs, dark lyrics, and an aesthetic that shaped the genre. The original lineup’s reunion for Back to the Beginning is a historic moment, especially given the health challenges faced by its members.
Tony Iommi, diagnosed with lymphoma in 2012, remains in remission but under medical supervision. Bill Ward, who suffered a heart attack in 1998, also contends with health issues, while Geezer Butler has retired from music. Ozzy’s determination to perform, despite his conditions, adds emotional weight to the event.
Live stream and accessibility
To reach fans unable to attend, Back to the Beginning will be streamed live online. Streaming tickets, priced at approximately $16.50, grant 48-hour access to the content post-event. Available via the festival’s official website, the stream begins at 11 a.m. Brasília time, covering all performances, from Ozzy’s solo set to Black Sabbath’s finale. The production, led by an experienced team, aims to deliver an immersive experience for global viewers.
Additional confirmed acts
Beyond the main acts, a supergroup led by Tom Morello will perform Black Sabbath covers, featuring Slash, Steven Tyler of Aerosmith, and Jonathan Davis of Korn. The inclusion of artists like Lzzy Hale of Halestorm and David Draiman of Disturbed highlights the band’s influence across generations. This blend of veterans and newer talents underscores the festival’s broad appeal.
Anticipation for the event
Back to the Beginning is more than Black Sabbath’s farewell; it’s Ozzy Osbourne’s final live performance. His health struggles, which prevented a 2024 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame appearance, make this event deeply significant. Fans eagerly await an emotional performance from the original lineup, a rare chance to witness history.
Despite backstage challenges, the festival’s organization remains on track. Sharon’s leadership ensures a memorable experience, with the band exclusion unlikely to overshadow the event’s grandeur. The focus remains on celebrating Black Sabbath’s legacy and supporting its charitable causes.
