Geezer Butler Voices Anxieties Ahead of Black Sabbath’s Final Show
With only two months remaining until Black Sabbath’s highly anticipated final performance, bassist Geezer Butler has opened up about the intense apprehension he feels ahead of the event.
The Final Concert Event
The legendary band’s concluding show is set for July 5 in Birmingham, England, as part of the “Back to the Beginning” concert. This performance marks a rare opportunity for fans, as it will feature the original lineup—Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward—coming together for the first time in two decades, alongside heavyweights like Metallica and Slayer.
Ozzy Osbourne’s Health Concerns
Osbourne’s return to the stage has raised questions, particularly since he hasn’t performed a full set since December 31, 2018, following his Parkinson’s diagnosis. He has expressed a desire for fans to have tempered expectations, clarifying that he will only participate in “little bits and pieces” during the performance. “I am doing what I can, where I feel comfortable,” Osbourne explained.
Butler’s Anxieties
In a recent interview with The Guardian, Butler shared his uncertainty regarding how the performance will unfold, particularly in light of Osbourne’s health. “I’m already having palpitations,” Butler confessed. “In fact, I had a nightmare last night. I dreamed everything went wrong on stage and we all turned to dust. It’s important that we leave a great impression, since it’s the final time that people will experience us live. So it has to be great on the night.”
Setup for a Unique Show
Osbourne reiterated that the performance will not consist of a complete set but rather a brief selection of songs. “We’re only playing a couple of songs each,” he stated, cautioning fans not to feel “ripped off.” He emphasized that the event will serve as a ‘sample’ of their music.
Preparation and Realism
Despite undergoing rigorous training for the upcoming performance, Osbourne acknowledged that the reality of his current condition means the show will differ significantly from what fans might expect. “I’m used to doing two hours on stage, jumping and running around. I don’t think I’ll be doing much jumping or running around this time. I may be sitting down, but the point is I’ll be there, and I’ll do the best I can,” he concluded.