The iconic Ozzy Osbourne, known as the Prince of Darkness, recently graced the world with a spectacular benefit concert aimed at bolstering Parkinson’s research and supporting children’s hospitals. The event proved to be a monumental success, amassing an extraordinary $190 million in donations.
The concert brought together an impressive lineup of heavy metal legends, culminating in Black Sabbath’s final performance. Tickets for the show in Birmingham were snatched up in just 16 minutes, broadcasting to millions of fans globally via livestream.
Tom Morello from Rage Against the Machine, who took the helm as music director, expressed his aspirations for the event to be a timeless reminder of the music that shaped his life. Proceeds from the concert went to several organizations, including Cure Parkinson’s, where Osbourne himself is a patient, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorn Children’s Hospice.
The night’s performances featured a plethora of heavy metal giants, including Mastodon, Anthrax, Lamb of God, and Metallica, among others. Black Sabbath made a historic return, marking the first live reunion of the original lineup—Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward—since 2005. Seated on a throne shaped like a bat, Osbourne delivered an energetic 9-song set despite his ongoing battle with Parkinson’s.
Osbourne reflected on the concert’s significance, describing it as a chance to “give back to the place where I was born.” His heartfelt sentiments were echoed by Morello, who acknowledged the labor of love that the past year had entailed in bringing this monumental event to fruition.
The concert not only showcased legendary performances but also served a greater purpose. It is a hopeful reminder of the power of music to unite and inspire, encouraging generosity in supporting critical health causes. As Osbourne stated, “It’s so good to be on this f—ing stage,” a sentiment that resonates within the hearts of heavy metal fans around the world.