Heavy metal legends Black Sabbath embarked on their final tour, "The End," in 2017, treating fans worldwide to a farewell journey filled with iconic hits and unforgettable performances. This comprehensive article delves into the band's 2017 tour, its significance, notable moments, and the impact it had on both the band and their devoted followers.
Black Sabbath's Final Bow: The End Tour 2017
Announced in January 2016, "The End" tour marked the conclusion of a legendary career that spanned nearly five decades. The tour's name was inspired by the band's 1971 track "Black Sabbath" and served as a fitting farewell to the pioneers of heavy metal. The 2017 leg of the tour kicked off in January, with the band playing to sold-out arenas and stadiums across North America, Europe, and Australia.
Lineup and Setlist
The 2017 tour featured the original Black Sabbath lineup, consisting of Ozzy Osbourne (vocals), Tony Iommi (guitar), Geezer Butler (bass), and Tommy Clufetos (drums, replacing the late Bill Ward). The setlist was a career-spanning retrospective, showcasing classics like "Iron Man," "Paranoid," "War Pigs," and "Black Sabbath." The band also performed deeper cuts and fan favorites, demonstrating their enduring influence and musical legacy.
Notable Moments
- Birmingham Homecoming: The tour's European leg began in Birmingham, England, where Black Sabbath played their final UK show at Genting Arena on February 2, 2017. The hometown gig was an emotional affair, with the band paying tribute to their roots and expressing gratitude for their fans' support.
- Ozzy's Emotional Farewell: Throughout the tour, Ozzy Osbourne struggled with the reality of saying goodbye to the stage. In an interview, he admitted, "It's very emotional for me... I'm not going to lie to you, it's a very strange feeling." His emotional performances resonated with fans, making each show a memorable experience.
- Tribute to Lemmy: During their January 22, 2017, show in Seattle, Black Sabbath paid tribute to Motorhead's Lemmy Kilmister, who had passed away in late 2015. The band performed a cover of Motorhead's "Ace of Spades," with Ozzy dedicating the song to Lemmy and expressing his gratitude for their friendship.
Impact and Legacy
Black Sabbath's 2017 tour left an indelible mark on the music world. The band's influence on heavy metal and rock 'n' roll is undeniable, and their final tour served as a testament to their enduring popularity and musical prowess. For many fans, the 2017 shows were bittersweet moments, marking the end of an era while celebrating the band's incredible legacy.
In an interview with Rolling Stone, Tony Iommi reflected on the tour, saying, "It's been great to go out and do these shows. It's been fantastic, and I'm really glad we did it. I'm glad we didn't just stop and not say goodbye to the fans." The 2017 tour allowed Black Sabbath to say their goodbyes on their own terms, leaving behind a lasting impact on both the band and their fans.
Tour Dates and Venues
| Date | City | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| January 20, 2017 | Omaha, NE | CenturyLink Center |
| January 22, 2017 | Seattle, WA | KeyArena |
| February 2, 2017 | Birmingham, UK | Genting Arena |
| ... (additional dates) | ... | ... |
Black Sabbath's 2017 tour was more than just a farewell; it was a celebration of a legendary career and the band's enduring influence on the music world. As the band took their final bows, fans worldwide raised their horns in tribute, honoring the pioneers of heavy metal and the indelible mark they left on music history.
