Soundgarden has released a heartfelt statement that pays tribute to the legendary Ozzy Osbourne and the iconic band Black Sabbath, while also clarifying the reason behind their absence from the highly anticipated Back to the Beginning concert. This event was a significant occasion celebrating the contributions of these rock legends to music history.

In a May interview with The Guardian, Sharon Osbourne hinted that the surviving members of Soundgarden would join the lineup alongside Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler. Despite Tyler’s presence at the event, the members of Soundgarden were notably absent, which raised questions among fans.

So, what caused this absence? The band explained in their recent announcement that it was a scheduling conflict that prevented them from attending. They expressed their disappointment, stating, “We are incredibly saddened and regret that we could not align the schedules of our individual and collective projects to participate in this festival.”

Despite not being able to attend, Soundgarden took the opportunity to honor Ozzy and Black Sabbath’s remarkable impact on the music world. Their heartfelt message shared on Instagram is a testament to their admiration and respect:

Congratulations to Black Sabbath on the grand and final pealing of their vesper bells!

Thank you for an astounding career that has gifted us, along with your legion of fans, a lifetime filled with beauty, horror, love, power, happiness, melancholy, and a profoundly sublime yet viscerally rocking transcendence that has been informed by both doom and hope. Your majestic brilliance has inspired countless other bands, musicians, and songwriters. However, the crown will forever remain yours!

We are extremely grateful to Tony Iommi, Ozzy Osbourne, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward, as well as Sharon Osbourne and music director Tom Morello for the honor and invitation extended to Soundgarden to perform at the Back to the Beginning festival! We are deeply saddened and regret that we were unable to coordinate our schedules to attend and contribute to the festival. The warmth, love, and support from the Black Sabbath team have been a continual source of encouragement and strength throughout our career.

(Pic 1) Download Festival – Castle Donington, Leicestershire, 2012
(Pic 2-3) Back to the Beginning – Birmingham, 2025
(Pic 4) London, 2014
(Pic 5) Tacoma, WA, 2016

All photos by Ross Halfin except photo 5, by Bill Herzog

Soundgarden loves you and embraces your rock and roll souls!
XOSG!!!

The curiosity surrounding the status of Soundgarden has surged in recent days following drummer Matt Cameron‘s announcement of his departure from Pearl Jam after an impressive 27-year tenure. Cameron has played a pivotal role in both Soundgarden and Pearl Jam, as well as their collaborative project Temple of the Dog.

Discover Why Motley Crue Was Also Absent from Back to the Beginning

Another band with strong connections to Ozzy and Black Sabbath that many fans noticed missing from the lineup was Motley Crue. Recently, Nikki Sixx provided insights into the band’s absence during an #AskSixx Q&A session on the social media platform X, where he interacted with fans.

Sixx revealed, “We have been facing health issues within the band,” shedding light on their situation. The bassist has previously shared his own congratulatory message to Ozzy and Black Sabbath after their performance, acknowledging Ozzy and Sharon for providing them with one of their first significant breaks as a band.

READ MORE: 43 Back to the Beginning Performers Share Emotional Tributes to Ozzy + Black Sabbath

Back in April, Motley Crue had to withdraw from their scheduled appearance at May’s Boardwalk Rock Fest, and they also postponed their spring Las Vegas residency until the fall. These decisions were made to allow Vince Neil time to recover after a necessary medical procedure earlier this year.