The Final Countdown: Ozzy Osbourne’s last live show with Black Sabbath is just around the corner, but he insists it’s not the end of his career.

Ozzy Osbourne Vows: “My Last Show Isn’t the End” – Black Sabbath’s Original Lineup Gears Up for an Emotional Farewell at Villa Park

Legendary frontman Ozzy Osbourne has made it clear: next weekend’s much-anticipated Black Sabbath concert won’t be the final chapter of his storied career. At 76, and despite battling Parkinson’s disease, Ozzy remains as passionate about music as ever.

Speaking to Metal Hammer, Ozzy reflected, “I’m incredibly blessed to say my goodbyes surrounded by amazing musicians and friends. We’re one of the few bands from the late ‘60s whose original members are still alive—and still talking! As my wife says, it’s an invisible bond that can’t be broken.”

He added, “I still love making music, whether it’s my own or collaborating with others. As long as the projects excite me, I’ll keep recording. That’s very important to me.”

But Ozzy isn’t the only member preparing for one of the most significant nights in Black Sabbath’s history. Drummer Bill Ward, now in his late seventies, is facing the challenge of returning to the stage after years away from stadium shows. “I played for two hours yesterday—very loud,” Bill shared. “I’m doing sparring and boxing to keep my upper body fit.”

Asked why he’s coming back for this final gig, Bill replied, “They’re still my brothers. They always will be. No matter how much we argue, I grew up with them. I love them.”

Reflecting on his journey, Bill said, “Black Sabbath was the best thing that ever happened to me. I was a lost kid, and drums and rock’n’roll gave me purpose. From our first rehearsal, I knew we could do something bold and different—and we did.”

Bassist Geezer Butler echoed the sentiment, telling Metal Hammer, “I wouldn’t have considered this without Bill. The whole point of this last show is for the original four of us to play together.”

Guitarist Tony Iommi added, “For me, this is the end of Sabbath. We’ll do this, then that’s it. I want to be remembered for what we brought to the table—for inspiring other bands and changing music.”

On July 5th, Black Sabbath will headline their final show at Birmingham’s Villa Park—an event fittingly titled “Back To The Beginning.” The concert marks the first time in 20 years that Ozzy, Tony, Geezer, and Bill will share the stage as the original lineup.

The band’s last performance in Birmingham, back in 2017, featured Ozzy, Tony, and Geezer—but Bill was notably absent. Now, with Ozzy undergoing daily physical therapy and training in Los Angeles, his wife Sharon says he’s more determined than ever to give fans a show to remember. “Ozzy’s working with his therapist every single day. His fans are his number one priority, and he’s doing everything he can to be ready for them.”

As the curtain falls on a legendary era, one thing is certain: Black Sabbath’s legacy—and their brotherhood—will endure long after the final note fades.

For more on Black Sabbath’s incredible journey, order “Black Sabbath – End of an Era” by Mirror Collection.

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