BIRMINGHAM, England — Ozzy Osbourne took the stage Saturday at Villa Park, igniting a celebratory atmosphere during a star-studded tribute titled “Back to the Beginning,” which honored his legendary career along with his band, Black Sabbath. Amid a day filled with heavy metal performances, fans from around the globe gathered to witness this iconic spectacle celebrating the roots of a genre that began in this proud city.

The event transformed Birmingham into a heavy metal carnival weeks in advance. Streets were adorned with purple decorations, celebrating the city’s heritage, and fans donned attire ranging from classic T-shirts to jackets, reminiscent of the band’s early days. The anticipation built after fans flocked to significant local sites, including venues where Black Sabbath performed in their infancy.

As concertgoers arrived at the historic football stadium, they were greeted by the sounds of distorted guitar riffs, combined with the sight of an enormous inflatable figure of Osbourne overseeing the festivities. Enthusiasm surged among fans like Cody Holl, who traveled from Pennsylvania, expressing his euphoria about attending what he called Black Sabbath’s last performance. “I had to be here,” he stated, underscoring the event’s significance for many who cherished the music throughout their lives.

Renowned bands such as Anthrax, Lamb of God, and Mastodon paid homage to Osbourne and Black Sabbath, showcasing their influence across generations. A highlight of the day was a powerful cover of “Children of the Grave” by Lamb of God, which drew a massive crowd into a swirling mosh pit.

Unexpected collaboration brought excitement as well. Yungblud performed “Changes” with a new ensemble, dedicating the song to late soccer player Diogo Jota, immediately capturing the emotional gravity of the day. The atmosphere oscillated between heartfelt tributes and exuberant fanfare, exemplified by a lively drum-off featuring members from Blink-182, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Tool.

As the day progressed, bands including Alice in Chains, Pantera, and Slayer commanded the stage with riveting performances. Slayer’s set was particularly notable, igniting the crowd with energetic renditions of their classic tracks, leading to intense mosh pits.

The evening culminated when Metallica’s James Hetfield took the opportunity to express gratitude, stating, “Without Sabbath, there would be no Metallica.” This sentiment resonated throughout the venue as fans reflected on the contributions of Black Sabbath to rock.

As Osbourne finally arrived on stage, he expressed his exhilaration to perform again. The emotional weight was palpable as he delivered poignant hits like “Mama I’m Coming Home” and the hard-hitting “Crazy Train,” honoring his musical journey that began over five decades ago. The event marked not just a concert, but a final nod to a legacy that shaped an entire genre.

With Black Sabbath reuniting for a brief set, they performed classics such as “War Pigs,” bringing the audience to a fever pitch. Even from his seated position, Osbourne’s spirit resonated through the crowd, urging fans to celebrate the event with fervor.

As the night drew to a close, the final performance of “Paranoid” carried a bittersweet yet triumphant tone, encapsulating the collective experience of thousands celebrating a storied career. This farewell, marked by nostalgia and emotional resonance, feels significant in the lives of many who have grown up with the music that changed the landscape of rock forever.