BACK TO THE BEGINNING | VILLA PARK | 2025
When the call came asking if I could work the Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne “Back to the Beginning” farewell event, there was only one answer: absolutely yes. This wasn’t just another gig—this was undoubtedly one of the biggest concerts of all time, and I had the opportunity be a small part of it. It appeared that every photographer at the event was either hired by the event itself, one of the bands, or by one of the various vendors—there was no traditional press photography.
While I wouldn’t be shooting the stage, I was tasked with covering an exclusive VIP backstage area organised by Nugget Events. This role perfectly blended two of my favourite genres: music photography and event photography. My job was twofold: ensure the brands received the coverage they needed while also documenting the incredible faces who came to enjoy the meticulously organised space that Nugget Events had created.
The backstage VIP lounge was a rock and roll paradise, featuring multiple bars and an impressive array of brand partnerships. Gibson Guitars, Dixxon Flannels, Parliament Tattoos, Indian Motorcycles, Jersey Jack’s Pinball, Nails Bab, Mary Wyatt and Astrella Jewellery were in attendance, plus a host of premium food and drinks brands.
Each brand brought something unique to the experience, creating an atmosphere that perfectly complemented the historic nature of the event.
What made this assignment truly special was the opportunity to photograph people I’d idolized as a teenager—artists that countless fans have looked up to for decades. Throughout the day I encountered many of the acts, including: Billy Corgan, Chad Smith, Kirk Hammett, Robert Trujillo, Jake E Lee, Jason Momoa, Lzzy Hale, Kerry King and many more.
Dixxon Flannels created a limited-edition backstage shirt that could only be obtained at the show by hand—a true collector’s item. They also partnered with artist Lea Williams to customise some of their leather jackets, which were presented to select artists including Kirk Hammett, Robert Trujillo, and event producer Andy Copping.
The event wasn’t just about celebration—it had a charitable component that added meaningful depth to the evening. Brands donated items to be autographed and auctioned for three benefiting charities. Gibson Guitars, for example, donated SG standards that were signed by multiple artists, turning beautiful instruments into priceless memorabilia for worthy causes.
After the concert finished, our VIP area transformed into the venue for the official after party. While we were asked not to use professional cameras, everyone had their phones out anyway. It was during this relaxed atmosphere that I captured what would become possibly the most traveled photograph of the day - Sid Wilson proposing to Kelly Osbourne in from of Sharon, Jack and Ozzy. Kelly herself shared the photo on Instagram, which was an incredible honour!
Of course being able to watch Ozzy and Sabbath at on stage was incredible, emotional, and a real lifelong core memory.
Special thanks to Michelle and Nugget Events for having me and organising such an incredible event. It’s nights like these that remind me why I fell in love with music/event photography in the first place.