Sharon Osbourne Reveals No One Demanded Money for Back to the Beginning
In a heartfelt revelation, Sharon Osbourne shared that no artists were compensated for their performances at Ozzy Osbourne’s final concert, “Back to the Beginning.” This emotional event took place on July 5 at Villa Park in Birmingham, England, shortly before Ozzy’s passing on July 22 at the age of 76.
The Generosity of Artists
During an episode of The Osbournes podcast, Sharon discussed the selflessness of well-known bands and artists who participated in the tribute concert. Iconic groups such as Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Slayer, and Pantera performed in honor of the late rock legend without financial gain. Sharon noted,
- “We paid the costs of bringing everybody in and their accommodations, but nobody asked for a single penny.”
- “They gave their time, efforts, and everything for free. People were so generous.”
Fundraising Misunderstandings
Sharon addressed misconceptions surrounding the concert’s fundraising outcomes. Reports erroneously claimed the event raised approximately $190 million for charities, including Birmingham Children’s Hospital and Cure Parkinson’s. Tom Morello, guitarist for Rage Against the Machine, had shared this inflated figure via social media.
Jack Osbourne, Sharon’s son, also commented on the misleading figures, asserting there was “an awful lot of bulls–t” circulating about the concert’s financial success. Sharon clarified that the actual amount raised was about $11 million, emphasizing the reality of the substantial expenses incurred during the concert planning.
Future Projects
The charity concert’s legacy will be further celebrated with the release of a concert film titled “Back to the Beginning: Ozzy’s Final Bow,” set for theatrical display early next year. This 100-minute film aims to encapsulate the memorable performances and the spirit in which they were given.
Sharon Osbourne’s candid reflections bring to light the dedication and generosity of Ozzy’s fellow artists. They all united for a significant cause, paying tribute to a musical icon while supporting charity efforts in his name.
