BIRMINGHAM, England — In a historic homecoming, the legendary heavy metal band Black Sabbath reunited Saturday for a final performance, marking the first time in two decades that the original lineup took the stage together. The concert at Villa Park, attended by 42,000 fans, was a heartfelt farewell to frontman Ozzy Osbourne, who announced it as his last live performance.

With an electrifying opening, Osbourne’s entrance on a winged throne elicited cheers from the crowd. “It’s so good to be on this stage – let the madness begin!” he declared, embodying the spirit of a musician who has lived through decades of highs and lows.

The reunion set featured just four classic tracks: “War Pigs,” “N.I.B,” “Iron Man,” and “Paranoid,” adhering to the band’s decision to keep the performance manageable given their age. Guitarist Tony Iommi had previously indicated that stamina concerns influenced the limited selection. Following the closing notes, a cake was presented to Osbourne as dazzling fireworks lit up the night sky.

Before the Black Sabbath set, Osbourne delivered a five-song solo performance that included “Crazy Train” and “Mama I’m Coming Home.” He was joined by his long-time collaborator Zakk Wylde, who contributed to the centerpiece of the day’s events, presenting a collection of hard rock and heavy metal acts that celebrated their iconic legacy.

Several of the biggest names in rock contributed to the day-long festivities, including Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Tool, and Pantera, each performing their own mini-sets infused with Sabbath covers. Guns N’ Roses notably paid homage by performing multiple Black Sabbath songs, showcasing their respect for the band that helped shape the genre.

The lineup also featured supergroups with musicians like Steven Tyler and Billy Corgan, curated by Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine. The event was further enlivened by a surprise appearance from actor Jason Momoa, who hosted the festivities and joined the crowd in a jubilant mosh pit.

The reunion was streamed to millions of fans around the world, although the broadcast experienced a two-hour delay. Not all moments were without controversy, as singer David Draiman from Disturbed received mixed reactions, highlighting the complex sentiments surrounding public figures in today’s sociopolitical landscape.

Osbourne’s performance was characterized by tenderness as he navigated physical limitations brought on by health struggles, including surgeries and a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. At 76, Osbourne expressed gratitude to fans, reflecting on his desire to spend quality time with his family instead of on the road.

This final concert aimed not only to celebrate Black Sabbath’s storied legacy, which began in 1970 with the release of their groundbreaking debut album, but to reaffirm the enduring impact they have had on the music world. Member reunions have taken place over the years, but this marked an emotional capstone for a band often credited as the pioneers of heavy metal.

As the sun set on the iconic night, tributes flowed in, with fellow artists acknowledging what Black Sabbath meant to rock music. Phil Anselmo from Pantera noted, “We’d all be different people without them. I know I wouldn’t be up here without Black Sabbath.”

The concert also served as a charitable endeavor, with proceeds allocated to organizations like Cure Parkinson’s and local children’s hospitals, ensuring that the band’s legacy continues to make a positive impact beyond their music. As the final notes echoed through Villa Park, the celebration of Black Sabbath’s journey combined both nostalgia and gratitude, leaving fans with memories to cherish.