Bob Daisley, the former bassist for Ozzy Osbourne, has expressed concerns about the upcoming farewell performance of the rock legend, calling it a potential “embarrassment.” The event, titled “Back to the Beginning,” will feature Osbourne performing a short solo set before reuniting with the original lineup of Black Sabbath for the first time in two decades. The show is scheduled for July 5th at Villa Park in Birmingham, Osbourne’s hometown, marking a significant milestone in his legendary career.
Though many fans are eagerly awaiting the event, Daisley, who played a key role in Osbourne’s early solo albums, has raised some doubts. “While the idea of a grand farewell show sounds great, it’s always a risky move,” Daisley commented. He went on to express that such a high-profile show, with so much pressure on the performers, could be too much to handle. His caution stems from his experience in the music industry, where even the most celebrated shows sometimes fall short of expectations.
The event promises to be a monumental spectacle, with Osbourne being supported by an array of world-class bands. Alongside the Black Sabbath reunion, Osbourne will be joined by Metallica, Slayer, Pantera, Gojira, Halestorm, Alice In Chains, Lamb Of God, Anthrax, and Mastodon, all performing as part of the event’s lineup. This star-studded list will undoubtedly add to the anticipation surrounding the show, but Daisley’s comments suggest that the immense scale and pressure could backfire, especially if the performance does not live up to fans’ lofty expectations.
“I think it’s going to be a monumental moment,” said Daisley. “But it’s one of those things where you’re walking a fine line. If everything goes perfectly, it will be a glorious send-off. But if something goes wrong, it could tarnish Ozzy’s legacy in a way none of us want.”
Osbourne himself has been vocal about the significance of the show, stating that this farewell concert is his opportunity to give back to the place where it all began. On Instagram, he shared, “It’s my time to go ‘Back to the Beginning’… time for me to give back to the place where I was born. How blessed am I to do it with the help of people whom I love. Birmingham is the true home of metal. Birmingham forever.”