After decades of defining and redefining heavy metal, Ozzy Osbourne took the stage one final time as a solo artist during the historic “Back To The Beginning” concert on July 5 at Villa Park in Birmingham, UK. While BLACK SABBATH’s final performance was still to come later in the evening, this set marked the end of an era for Ozzy’s solo career — and he went out in true Prince of Darkness fashion.
Seated on a majestic throne (complete with a symbolic bat perched atop), Ozzy was joined by a powerhouse band:
- Zakk Wylde – Guitar
- Tommy Clufetos – Drums
- Adam Wakeman – Keyboards
- Mike Inez – Bass
Emotions were high as fans gathered to witness this unforgettable moment. Ozzy addressed the crowd with heartfelt gratitude — visibly choked up at times — but still every bit the showman, ending the set with water cannons and his trademark grin. Here are the five songs he performed during his final solo appearance:
1. “I Don’t Know”
Kicking off the set with explosive energy, Ozzy launched into the opening track from 1980’s Blizzard of Ozz. It was a powerful way to start — a song that still sounds razor-sharp after all these years.
2. “Mr. Crowley”
The haunting keyboards signaled one of Ozzy’s most iconic songs. With Adam Wakeman channeling his father’s eerie intro and Zakk Wylde shredding through Randy Rhoads’ legendary solos, this was a goosebumps moment for longtime fans.
3. “Suicide Solution”
Another Blizzard classic followed, with Ozzy’s voice cutting through the air and his band locked in tight. The performance carried both emotional weight and gritty defiance — a reminder of Ozzy’s raw, no-apologies approach to heavy music.
. “Mama, I’m Coming Home”
Shifting gears, Ozzy turned to 1991’s No More Tears for one of his most heartfelt ballads. Sitting on his throne, he delivered a powerful and moving version that clearly struck a chord with the audience — many of whom sang along, teary-eyed and swaying.
5. “Crazy Train”
What better way to close his final solo performance than with his biggest hit? As the unmistakable opening riff hit, the crowd erupted. Ozzy was all smiles, hosing down the front rows and letting loose one last time. It was classic, chaotic, and 100% Ozzy.
The End of a Solo Legacy
This five-song set was more than just a performance — it was a celebration of a solo career that spanned over four decades, influenced generations of artists, and cemented Ozzy Osbourne as one of the most important figures in rock history.
And yet, the night wasn’t over.
Ozzy would return one last time — this time with BLACK SABBATH — to close out the “Back To The Beginning” event with the band that started it all.
Reeder, the visionary behind Metal Addicts, has transformed his lifelong passion for metal into a thriving online community for metal aficionados. As a fervent devotee of black metal, Reeder is captivated by its dark, atmospheric, and often unorthodox soundscapes.