Jason Momoa & Jack Black Host Ozzy Tribute in Birmingham

Get ready for an unparalleled metal spectacle! Hollywood titans Jason Momoa and Jack Black joined forces to host what was undeniably “the most metal show of the year,” a monumental benefit concert dedicated to celebrating Ozzy Osbourne’s final performance with the legendary Black Sabbath. This epic event, aptly titled “Back to the Beginning,” electrified Villa Park in Birmingham, England, on July 5, 2025—the very birthplace of heavy metal.
The announcement alone sent tremors of excitement through the global metal community, largely fueled by the genuine, unbridled enthusiasm of its celebrity hosts. Jason Momoa, a known metalhead through and through, couldn’t contain his awe, admitting he was “speechless” when Sharon Osbourne extended the invitation. His passion for the genre is no secret; he confessed he was already “begging for tickets” to the show, remarking on the “strange world” that led him to co-host it instead. This gig held particular significance for Momoa, who tragically had to cancel his plans to attend Black Sabbath’s “The End” final concert in 2017 due to a family issue. His devotion runs deep, as he shared that he “listens to the first Black Sabbath album every day,” a testament to his unwavering reverence for the pioneers who forged the very foundations of heavy metal.
A Lineup for the Ages: The “Brutal” Bill Unveiled
“Back to the Beginning” delivered on its promise of a “brutal line-up,” assembling an unprecedented roster of metal royalty that left fans breathless. The hallowed ground of Villa Park was graced by:
Metallica: The undisputed titans of thrash metal, bringing their colossal sound and electrifying stage presence to the genre’s spiritual home.
Slayer: Unleashing their signature, relentless aggression in a truly rare and explosive performance that reminded everyone why they remain one of the most feared bands in metal.
Pantera: Continuing their powerful return, honoring the enduring legacy of the Abbott brothers with their crushing groove metal might and undeniable energy.
Lamb Of God: Delivering their modern metal ferocity with precision and raw power.
Alice In Chains: Offering their iconic blend of haunting grunge and heavy metal, captivating the crowd with their distinctive sound.
Gojira: Showcasing their progressive and environmentally conscious death metal, pushing boundaries with their intricate yet powerful sound.
And the list didn’t stop there—numerous other heavyweights joined this extraordinary bill, transforming Villa Park into the ultimate pilgrimage site for metalheads worldwide. The sheer depth of talent on display solidified “Back to the Beginning” as an unmissable, once-in-a-lifetime event for any true devotee of the genre.
More Than Just Mosh Pits: A Charitable Metal Crusade
Beyond the incredible music and the powerful celebration of Ozzy Osbourne’s enduring legacy, “Back to the Beginning” also served a profoundly important purpose as a significant charitable endeavor. Every single penny of profit generated from this monumental event, encompassing both ticket sales and a global livestream, was wholeheartedly dedicated to three incredibly worthy causes:
Cure Parkinson’s: Supporting vital research, innovative treatments, and crucial initiatives aimed at combating Parkinson’s disease.
Birmingham Children’s Hospital: Providing essential, life-saving care and support to young patients and their families in need.
Acorn Children’s Hospice: Offering compassionate, holistic care and support to children with life-limiting conditions and their families, ensuring comfort and dignity.
In a truly inspiring display of solidarity and generosity, all the participating artists reportedly waived their performance fees, ensuring that every dollar raised directly benefited these vital charities. This collective commitment transformed “Back to the Beginning” from merely a concert into a true act of communal philanthropy, showcasing the immense heart and compassion that beats within the heavy metal community. It was a historic day where the raw, unadulterated power of metal converged with the profound power of giving back, leaving an indelible impact far beyond the final riff.