Ozzy Osbourne has opened up about his desire to have original Black Sabbath drummer Bill Ward join him for what he describes as his final performance. He shared his emotional thoughts in an interview with MOJO.
The rock legend addressed questions about Ward’s potential involvement in his upcoming farewell show and his plans for retirement from performing.
Osbourne emphasized the significance of their long history together when asked about the importance of Bill Ward being involved in his final show.
“It’s very important that Bill is a part of this show,” Osbourne said. “My career started with Bill, and I’d really like to finish with Bill by my side.”
The conversation then turned to whether this would truly mark the end of his performing career.
“After this show, I’m going home, closing the door and will look back upon the great career I’ve had,” he continued. “But I’m done, done, done! You gotta know when to call it quits.”
This farewell performance represents more than just the end of Osbourne’s career. It marks a historic reunion that fans have been waiting decades to witness.
Ozzy.com reported that the final show titled “Back to the Beginning” will take place on July 5 at Villa Park in Birmingham. The concert marks the first time the original Black Sabbath lineup—Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward—will perform together in 20 years. The concert celebrates their shared legacy and Birmingham’s status as the true home of metal. All profits will be shared equally between Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorn Children’s Hospice.
Osbourne is set to perform a short solo set featuring five songs in addition to the Black Sabbath reunion. Louder Sound confirmed that the set will include his 1991 hit “No More Tears” and “Flying High Again” from his 1981 album “Diary Of A Madman,” as supporting act Sammy Hagar revealed.
Osbourne remains determined to deliver a memorable final performance despite facing ongoing health challenges. Parade noted that he has been working with a personal trainer to regain physical strength for the show.
“By hook or by crook, I’m gonna make it there,” Osbourne stated. His words underscore his unwavering commitment to giving fans one last unforgettable experience with the band that helped define heavy metal music.
The statements reflect Osbourne’s emotional approach to concluding his decades-long career in music.
