Black Sabbath: Back To The Beginning — Why This Is More Than Just a Gig
I wanted to take a moment to share some personal thoughts about the forthcoming Back To The Beginning Black Sabbath show on July 5th — a show that marks not only a monumental moment in the band’s legacy but also a deeply personal chapter in the life of Ozzy Osbourne.
You can now stream the gig — but not without controversy. The internet has lit up with mixed reactions. Yes, the stream will be delayed by two hours, which is unusual. And yes, the ticket price has raised eyebrows: listed at £25 but closer to £35 after taxes and service fees. Many fans are wondering where the money is going and whether the approach could have been more fan-friendly. Some compare it to Live Aid, where we were encouraged to donate, not pay upfront.
But this isn’t just about the stream or the price. This entire event is part of a larger story — a film chronicling Ozzy’s life and his struggles with health. The gig will be a central part of that film, planned for release later this year on Paramount. Whether Ozzy is able to sing one song or several, the cameras will capture the courage and heart he brings to this farewell.
There’s been some negativity online too, particularly directed at Sharon Osbourne. Whatever your view, I urge people to approach this moment with kindness. Sharon loves Ozzy. Ozzy loves Sharon. They’re navigating this together — and Ozzy himself wants to do this for us, the fans.
For me, as someone who grew up in Birmingham, Black Sabbath is woven into the fabric of the city. I remember seeing the band members around town — bumping into Ozzy or Tony Iommi was part of everyday life. Sabbath’s music — especially the sound of those early records — was the soundtrack to the heavy industry of the city. I worked in a drop forging factory where the machines themselves sounded like a Sabbath track! Heavy metal was born there, and so was a sense of working-class pride and resilience.
Ozzy’s voice, even when singing Geezer Butler’s lyrics, captured the imagination of so many. And while Sabbath went through many line-ups (each one worthy of respect), there is a unique connection between Ozzy and the band’s original spirit. His innocence, humour, and vulnerability have always been part of his appeal — and it’s what makes this farewell so emotional.
Of course, there will be fans who feel the stream isn’t worth it, or who dislike the handling of the event. I understand that. But there will also be many fans — including those who’ve spent hundreds of pounds on tickets and travel — who want to be part of this historic moment.
Personally, I hope Ozzy finds peace in doing this. I hope he feels the love that will come through from fans both in the venue and watching around the world. And I hope the film will reflect the bravery and honesty of an artist who helped create an entire genre and whose music continues to inspire.
As we head toward July 5th, I encourage everyone to look at this event with empathy — to imagine what it must feel like for Ozzy, for his family, and for the musicians involved. Celebrate what this music has meant to us all. This is a unique, unrepeatable moment in rock history.
And whatever happens on the day, remember this:
Music is the healer and the doctor.
Keep spinning those discs.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
