- **Ozzy Osbourne, Black Sabbath Raise a ‘Ton of Money’ in Charity Aid**
*July 10, 2025 | Birmingham, UK | By Miranda Blake, Music Correspondent*
In a thunderous finale that echoed through the heart of Birmingham and across the world, Ozzy Osbourne and the original members of Black Sabbath reunited for a once-in-a-lifetime charity concert, raising what organizers described as a “ton of money” — nearly \$190 million — for three life-changing causes.
The farewell concert, aptly titled *Back to the Beginning*, took place on July 5 at Villa Park, marking the first full performance by the original Sabbath lineup since 2005. While the occasion was steeped in nostalgia and musical power, its purpose extended far beyond the stage. All proceeds from the show — including ticket sales, merchandise, global livestream subscriptions, and VIP meet-and-greet packages — are being donated to **Cure Parkinson’s**, **Birmingham Children’s Hospital**, and **Acorn Children’s Hospice**.
“This wasn’t just about music,” said Ozzy Osbourne, seated in a bat-shaped throne onstage, his voice trembling with emotion. “This was about giving something back to the people and the city that made us who we are. I may be broken in the body, but my heart’s still banging at full volume.”
Osbourne, who revealed last year that he can no longer walk due to advanced Parkinson’s, performed the full 90-minute set seated but electrified the crowd nonetheless. Alongside Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward, the performance was a powerful, bittersweet send-off that touched the hearts of fans and beneficiaries alike.
“This was history in the making,” said Tom Morello, the show’s musical director. “To see legends come together not just for rock ‘n’ roll, but for a cause greater than themselves, was incredibly moving.”
The sold-out crowd of over 40,000 fans in attendance was matched by a massive global audience — over 5.8 million people tuned in to watch the livestream from around the world, each ticket adding to the growing charity total.
Representatives from the three charities expressed astonishment at the magnitude of the donations.
“We’ve never seen anything like this,” said Dr. Elaine Richards, lead researcher at Cure Parkinson’s. “This funding will enable us to accelerate trials, develop new therapies, and offer hope to millions of people living with this disease.”
Birmingham Children’s Hospital announced plans to use their share of the donation to renovate its pediatric emergency wing and introduce a new state-of-the-art cinema room for long-term patients. “This gift is transformational,” said hospital spokesperson Emma Clarke. “To have one of Birmingham’s most iconic sons give back to his hometown like this — it’s deeply personal and deeply appreciated.”
Acorn Children’s Hospice, a smaller yet critical institution, said the funds would allow them to expand services, hire more specialized care staff, and open a second location. “We’re not just grateful — we’re overwhelmed,” said CEO Gillian Price. “This ensures we can provide dignity, love, and support to children and families who need it most.”
The event wasn’t just about charity and rock; it was a gathering of generations. Special guests including Metallica’s James Hetfield, Steven Tyler of Aerosmith, and Slash joined the stage throughout the night, jamming on iconic Sabbath tracks like “War Pigs” and “Paranoid.” But the spotlight remained firmly on the original lineup, whose final bows were met with thunderous applause and more than a few tears.
As the final notes of “Children of the Grave” echoed through Villa Park, the screens lit up with a simple message: *“Thank you. Never say die.”*
If this truly is the end for Black Sabbath, they’ve gone out not only in blazing glory, but with a legacy that transcends music — one of compassion, hometown pride,
and unwavering generosity.
