Geezer Butler, legendary bassist of Black Sabbath, has reflected on the band’s last performance together before the passing of Ozzy Osbourne. Known for his deep lyrics and heavy basslines, Butler has always been a thoughtful figure in the world of rock. Now, as the world mourns the death of Osbourne, Butler’s memories take on new emotional weight.
The final show, held in their hometown of Birmingham in 2017, marked not only the end of an era but also the last time the original members of Black Sabbath stood together on stage. In hindsight, it feels like a perfect farewell—one that Butler now views with a sense of bittersweet closure.
A Powerful Goodbye For The Heavy Metal Pioneers
In an interview reported by The Hollywood Reporter, Geezer Butler described that final concert as the band’s “true ending.” The performance, full of raw energy and mutual respect, captured everything the group stood for over decades of groundbreaking music. Although they were already older and dealing with health setbacks, the bond between them remained strong.
Butler said there was a shared understanding that it was their last time playing together. With Ozzy Osbourne’s health already beginning to decline behind the scenes, the show had unspoken weight. Fans sensed it too, filling the arena with cheers, nostalgia, and gratitude for the band that defined heavy metal.
A Legacy That Lives Beyond The Stage
Geezer Butler has spoken openly about the importance of that night, noting that they “went out on a high.” The group’s decision to end where it all began—back in Birmingham—brought their musical story full circle. It wasn’t just another gig; it was the closing of a chapter that shaped generations of musicians and fans alike.
Now, with Osbourne gone, the show’s meaning has deepened. Butler’s memories, once personal, now speak for millions who grew up listening to Black Sabbath. The music remains, but that final bow on stage holds a special place in rock history.