Who would’ve thought a group founded in 1968 would still be so vital on stage well into the 21st century? Nearly 50 years later, Black Sabbath is on tour, saying its yearlong farewell to fans. The End Tour will bring them to Camden’s BB&T Pavilion on Aug. 19.
The tour isn’t without drama. After so many years in the spotlight, it’s inevitable. Frontman Ozzy Osbourne has been in the news due to his admitted sex addiction. That has, in turn, dragged his marriage into the muck. And you won’t see original drummer Bill Ward, who’s been the subject of contractual disputes and claims that he can’t keep up on stage. Guitarist Tony Iommi recently underwent cancer treatment and is now in remission. It was his sense of urgency that’s helped drive this farewell tour.
Osbourne, Iommi and founding bassist Geezer Butler are joined by Adam Wakeman (on keyboards and rhythm guitar) and drummer Tommy Clufetos (from Ozzy’s solo band). The tour will be reminiscent of the band’s ’70s heyday, with the attendant mix of angst and assuredness. Thanks, in part, to his reality-TV exploits, the original Prince of Darkness has become an indelible part of our pop culture—and that should bridge the gap between old fans and new. The lovable rock icon is flaunting his longevity right up to the final bow.
And, no worries—it’s still heavy metal.
BB&T Pavilion
1 Harbor Blvd., Camden, N.J.
Friday, Aug. 19
Tickets start at $35
