Tom Morello has revealed the impressive fundraising success of Black Sabbath’s farewell concert, confirming that the event raised nearly $200 million for charity. The Rage Against the Machine guitarist shared details about the “Back to the Beginning” show in a post on Instagram.
Morello’s post included a photo stating that more than $190 million would be donated to houses and hospitals for children. He also reflected on his experience as the show’s Musical Director and the memorable moments from the event.
“Boom. We set out to not just create the greatest day in the history of heavy metal,” Morello wrote in his caption.
The guitarist went on to describe highlights from the show, including performances by various rock legends.
“Generals gathered in their masses. Steven Tyler rocked the joint to the ground,” he continued. “Adam Jones of Tool and I played in a band together in high school in Libertyville but haven’t shared the stage in decades…until now.”
Morello also shared personal moments from the concert, including his collaboration with other metal icons.
“I’m a huge Judas Priest fan and doing the synchronized metal chug with KK’s Priest during ‘Breaking The Law’ was epic,” he said. “Jack Black lifting my son, Roman Morello, during their ‘Mr. Crowley’ tribute brought a tear.”
The musician concluded by thanking Ozzy Osbourne for entrusting him with the Musical Director role and reflecting on the significance of the project.
“Thank you, Ozzy, for trusting me to be the Musical Director of the ‘Back To The Beginning’ show,” Morello stated. “It was over a year of hard work but heavy metal was the music that made me love music and it was a labor of love. We raised a ton of money for a great cause and so many great musicians and bands and fans all over the world paid tribute to the ALL TIME greats.”
The massive fundraising achievement represents one of the most successful charity concerts in rock history. It marks a fitting end to Black Sabbath’s legendary career.
Sortir à Paris reported that the farewell concert took place on July 5, 2025, at Villa Park in Birmingham, England, the city where Black Sabbath was formed 57 years ago. The event lasted ten hours and featured fourteen supporting acts. This created an unprecedented celebration of heavy metal music.
The concert brought together some of the biggest names in rock and metal. Wikipedia confirmed that Metallica and Lamb of God were among the notable supporting acts. The original Black Sabbath lineup of Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward reunited for this historic final performance. This gave fans one last chance to see the pioneering heavy metal band together.
People Magazine revealed that Ozzy Osbourne, who has been battling Parkinson’s disease since 2019, performed his final concert with the band while sitting on a bat-themed throne. This poignant image underscored the emotional weight of the farewell. The Prince of Darkness delivered his final performance in his hometown.
The event also featured unique elements that made it memorable beyond the music itself. The Independent documented that the concert included a mid-show drum-off and video tributes from artists who couldn’t attend, including AC/DC and Dolly Parton. Notable attendees included actors Jason Momoa and Steven Tyler. This added to the event’s star-studded atmosphere and cemented its status as a historic moment in rock history.
