As Black Sabbath prepare to take their final bow at the historic “Back to the Beginning” concert in Birmingham this Saturday, Guns N’ Roses are seemingly paying tribute to the metal pioneers in a powerful way.
According to a report from SFP Magazine, Axl Rose, Slash, Duff McKagan, and the rest of the GN’R lineup ran through Black Sabbath’s classic “Sabbath Bloody Sabbath” during soundcheck ahead of their July 2 performance at Dahls Arena in Trondheim, Norway.
The timing is more than suggestive. Guns N’ Roses are set to take the stage at the “Back to the Beginning” concert on July 5 at Villa Park in Birmingham — a once-in-a-lifetime event marking Ozzy Osbourne’s final live appearance and the reunion of Black Sabbath‘s original lineup: Ozzy, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward.
The all-star lineup also includes Metallica, Slayer, Tool, Pantera, Anthrax, Alice In Chains, Halestorm, and more, making it one of the most significant gatherings in metal history — both a grand farewell and a celebration of the genre’s enduring legacy.
If Guns N’ Roses follow through and perform “Sabbath Bloody Sabbath” live, it would be their first known cover of a Black Sabbath track — and a fitting salute to the band that laid the foundation for heavy music. Whether it’s a full performance or a subtle nod, fans will be watching closely.
Meanwhile, Ozzy Osbourne has made it clear that his musical journey isn’t over. In a recent Metal Hammer interview, he reaffirmed his passion for making music despite ongoing health issues. “I am very blessed to say my goodbyes with the help of so many amazing musicians and friends,” Ozzy said. “From the late ’60s, we are probably one of the only bands where the original members are still alive and speaking with one another.”
Though live shows are coming to an end, Ozzy isn’t retiring creatively. “I still enjoy doing my own work. I also enjoy singing on other people’s work,” he added. “For the foreseeable future, I will keep on recording if the projects interest me. It’s very important.”
