Big Rig Music Report 2.6 | 102.5 KZOK
The iconic rock band Black Sabbath, featuring Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward, are set to reunite for one final show. The all-day festival, Back to the Beginning, is scheduled for July 5th in Birmingham, England, the band’s hometown. Along with a solo performance by Ozzy, the event will showcase sets by Metallica, Slayer, Pantera, and other legendary bands. Additionally, a supergroup arranged by musical director Tom Morello will take the stage, comprising various top musicians from the rock scene. All proceeds from the show will support charitable organizations like Cure Parkinson’s and Birmingham Children’s Hospital.
Ozzy Osbourne expressed his excitement about the upcoming performance, stating: “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.” This reunion marks a significant moment for the band, as it will be Bill Ward’s first show with Black Sabbath since 2005.
In other music news, Elton John has revealed details about his latest album, a collaboration with Brandi Carlile titled Who Believes in Angels? The album, set to release on April 4th, was described by Elton as a transformative experience and a new beginning for his career. Brandi added that working with Elton was inspiring and challenging, creating a true family dynamic in the recording studio. The album features contributions from Bernie Taupin, with Andrew Watt producing, and includes performances by renowned musicians like Chad Smith and Pino Palladino.
Meanwhile, Neil Young has completed recording his new album, Talkin’ to the Tree, with his new band, Chrome Hearts. Young expressed his happiness and relief at finishing the project, noting it was a joyful experience working with the band at Shangri-La studio. The upcoming album, co-produced by Young and Lou Adler, is expected to be released in April and will feature fresh songs for his upcoming summer tour.
On the auction front, Stevie Nicks’ signed top hat from a Saturday Night Live shoot fetched an impressive $58,500 at a charity auction in Santa Monica. Music memorabilia collectors showed strong interest in items related to iconic artists like Nicks and Paul McCartney, with a lyric book and Abbey Road Studios experience selling well. The success of the auction highlighted the enduring appeal of music history and collectibles.
Lastly, the Bourbon & Beyond festival in Louisville, Ky., will feature headline acts like Phish, Alabama Shakes, and Jack White. With over 120 artists performing across five stages, the festival promises a diverse lineup and immersive experiences highlighting bourbon and culinary culture. Proceeds from the event will benefit the DWP Foundation, showcasing the intersection of music, charity, and cultural celebration.