On July 5, the members of metal pioneers Black Sabbath will gather one last time for a gala event of rock music in the home town of Birmingham, England before leader Ozzy Osbourne hangs up the microphone.
On June 28, the founding members of the band – Terence “Geezer” Butler, Tony Iommi, Ozzy Osbourne, and Bill Ward – were awarded the Freedom of the City of Birmingham. The scrolls and medals were presented by Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Zafar Iqbal.
An honour of long standing tradition, The Freedom of the City “recognizes people’s exceptional service to the city.” Black Sabbath is being recognized for “the cultural and musical identity of Birmingham, their strong association with the city and continued influence as pioneers of heavy metal in both Birmingham and beyond.”
Each band member has the title of an Honorary Freeman and each of their names has been carved on Freedom of the City marble board.
The band has a bridge named after them- the Black Sabbath bridge is on Broad Street.
Geezer Butler spoke at the event saying, “this is a great working class city, and we’re all working class, from Aston. We weren’t given a chance when we started out, but Birmingham has always been behind us. People used to make fun of our accents, but we’re all proud Birmingham people and we love this city. It’s one of the greatest cities ever, it’s given the world so much and we’re proud to be here.”
Tony Iommi added, “it’s a great thing to receive. Birmingham is our home, and we love what Birmingham has done for us. We’ve got the bridge and the bench, things like that. We’re very grateful.”
Ozzy also spoke saying,“I first put an advert in a music store in town. If these guys hadn’t come to my door, I wouldn’t be sitting here now. It seems to have flown by so quickly. It’s amazing. I think about my dad, who went into debt to buy me a microphone. If only he could be here now. I think he would be very proud. I’m a Brummie and I always will be a Brummie. Birmingham Forever!”
Bill Ward noted, “it’s completely overwhelming. I’m so proud to be an Astonian. That’s where I got my attitude. It was a blessed – and cursed! – to meet Tony when I was 15, and I’m so proud that I got to know Geezer and Ozzy. They’re my brothers. I love them very much and we love our city very much.”
Deputy Leader of the city council Councillor Sharon Thompson said, “from the streets of Aston to global success, the ceremony has been a fitting celebration of their achievements and connection to our city, showcasing the band’s incredible career as pioneers of heavy metal and recognizing their continued legacy as part of Birmingham’s rich musical identity. Black Sabbath are global ambassadors of our city, and their music continues to inspire musicians across the world, so it has been wonderful to recognize the band with this honor.”
Since forming in 1968, Black Sabbath has sold over 75 million albums around the world. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame band has also earned a Lifetime Ivor Novello Songwriting Award, and have a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
Back to the Beginning is a day long event in Villa Park to celebrate the rockers on July 5. Ozzy is scheduled to perform a short solo set before being joined by his bandmates.
Proceeds from the day long event will go to the
Cure Parkinson’s, Acorns Children’s Hospice and Birmingham Children’s Hospital charities.