While the majority of the heavy metal community will be tuning in to watch Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath’s highly anticipated farewell show titled Back to the Beginning this coming July, Judas Priest is notably absent from the lineup, with the exception of former guitarist K.K. Downing. In a recent discussion with Metal Hammer, the iconic frontman Rob Halford shed light on the reasons behind the band’s absence from this monumental event.

Understanding the Absence of Judas Priest from Ozzy and Black Sabbath’s Farewell Show

Originating from Birmingham, Judas Priest has long shared a bond with Ozzy Osbourne and his legendary band Black Sabbath. It raises the question: why are they not included in this historic farewell concert?

Rob Halford revealed that conflicting schedules played a significant role in their absence. On the same day as the Ozzy-Sabbath farewell show, Judas Priest is committed to performing with the Scorpions in Hannover, Germany, having secured this booking prior to the announcement of the farewell concert. It’s worth noting that this isn’t just any ordinary performance; it’s part of a special occasion for the Scorpions.

“I had no idea this was happening,” Halford admitted to Metal Hammer.

“We’ve known Ossy Hoppe—he’s like a god in the German metal scene. He approached me at one of our last shows and asked, ‘Would you consider doing something really special and important? I’m organizing a concert for the Scorpions to celebrate their 60^th anniversary in their hometown. Would you collaborate with the band?’ I instantly agreed, saying, ‘Absolutely! We have no plans, so it’s all good.’”

The Scorpions 60th Anniversary concert is scheduled to take place on July 5 at the Heinz Von Heiden Arena in Hannover, Germany.

“As soon as the announcement was made, it became a major event—Scorpions and Priest together—and then I received a call [from Sharon Osbourne]: ‘Robbie, I know you have this gig with the Scorpions, but would you consider coming over to do something with Ozzy and the guys? He’d love to see you,’” Halford continued to explain.

Moreover, Halford mentioned that Sharon Osbourne even extended an offer to fly the band directly from Germany to Birmingham, but unfortunately, it simply didn’t work out.

Reflecting on the situation, Halford drew a parallel to Phil Collins during Live Aid, where he famously traveled from London to Philadelphia to perform at two concerts in one day. “He managed to do it thanks to the time differences!” Halford remarked. However, he expressed concerns regarding the potential safety issues of rushing between the two performances.

“Even with a private jet, there’s always a chance of a ‘technical’ issue, where something could go awry, or the unpredictable weather during that season could pose a challenge… I was absolutely devastated,” he shared.

READ MORE: Ozzy Osbourne Shares His Rigorous Training Routine for Final Performance

Though Judas Priest won’t be present at the farewell show, Halford expressed his delight that K.K. Downing will be there to embody “the spirit of the band.”

“All my friends will be there, incredible bands and artists,” he concluded. “This is a remarkable and historic moment for Black Sabbath and heavy metal—it reinforces the fact that Birmingham is the birthplace of metal music.”

Exploring the Significance of Ozzy and Black Sabbath’s Back to the Beginning Concert

In a significant role, Tom Morello from Rage Against the Machine is serving as the Musical Director for this monumental event. He has played an essential part in assembling a stellar lineup that boasts the participation of renowned bands such as Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Slayer, Tool, Pantera, Gojira, Halestorm, Alice in Chains, Lamb of God, Anthrax, Mastodon, and Rival Sons. Each of these artists will perform their sets while also paying tribute to Ozzy and Black Sabbath throughout the day-long concert celebration.

Additionally, the event will feature special performances that will bring together notable figures such as Billy Corgan, David Draiman, Duff McKagan, Fred Durst, Lzzy Hale, Jake E. Lee, Jonathan Davis, K.K. Downing, Mike Bordin, Papa V Perpetua, Rudy Sarzo, Sammy Hagar, Slash, Sleep Token II, Morello, Andrew Watt, Chad Smith, David Ellefson, Wolfgang Van Halen, along with members of Soundgarden, Steven Tyler, and host Jason Momoa, all of whom will participate in various performances throughout the day.

This star-studded performance is set to take place on July 5 at Villa Park in Birmingham, England.