Rocking with Legends: Halestorm's Experience at Ozzy Osbourne's Retirement Concert
Halestorm, a hard rock band from Pennsylvania, shared their experience backstage at Ozzy Osbourne's retirement concert, Back To The Beginning. The band described the atmosphere as "giddy" during rehearsals for the event, which took place on July 5 in Ozzy's hometown of Birmingham. The concert featured a star-studded lineup including Metallica, Guns N' Roses, Tool, Slayer, Gojira, and Mastodon, with Ozzy performing two sets, one of which reunited the original Black Sabbath lineup for the first time since 2005.
During rehearsals, the band members were surrounded by iconic musicians like Steven Tyler, James Hetfield, Tom Morello, and Axl Rose, creating a unique and special experience. The performers shared a "childlike" excitement and joy while preparing for the concert, making it a memorable event for everyone involved. The emotional highlight of the show was Ozzy singing "Mama, I'm Coming Home," evoking tears from the audience and fellow musicians.
Back To The Beginning took place just 17 days before Ozzy's passing on July 22 at the age of 76 due to a heart attack. Halestorm paid tribute to the legendary musician, expressing gratitude for being part of his final show while mourning the loss of a music icon. The band performed three songs at the event, including original tracks and a cover of Ozzy's "Perry Mason," standing out as the only band with a female vocalist in the lineup.
Halestorm's participation in the concert was seen as an honor, especially as the only band with a non-male singer. The band members felt proud to represent female vocalists in the rock genre and dedicated their performance to their fellow female musicians. Halestorm released their new album, "Everest," in August and are currently on a European tour with Indian nu metal band Bloodywood, with upcoming shows in the UK. The band's tour will culminate with a performance at the O2 Arena in London, UK.