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Black Sabbath's farewell tour culminated in a monumental show at Villa Park, marking the end of an era for one of rock's most iconic bands. But the impact of Black Sabbath extends far beyond their final performance. We spoke to a stellar lineup of artists – Metallica, Alice in Chains, Sammy Hagar, and Yungblud – to hear their heartfelt tributes and reflections on the band's enduring legacy.

From shaping the very foundations of heavy metal to inspiring generations of musicians, Black Sabbath's influence is undeniable. Metallica, pioneers of thrash metal themselves, openly acknowledge the debt they owe to the Birmingham quartet. “I owe Ozzy Osbourne everything,” Lars Ulrich of Metallica stated emphatically. “They were the blueprint. They showed us what was possible.” The sentiment was echoed by Billy Corgan of The Smashing Pumpkins who also lauded Sabbath's groundbreaking sound and stage presence.

Alice in Chains, known for their distinctive blend of grunge and heavy metal, also shared their respect. “Black Sabbath’s darkness and intensity really resonated with us growing up,” explained Jerry Cantrell. “They weren't afraid to explore the shadows, and that gave us permission to do the same in our own music.” Their own pioneering sound owes much to the groundwork laid by Sabbath.

Sammy Hagar, the iconic frontman of Van Halen, reminisced about the early days of rock and roll and the impact Black Sabbath had on the scene. “They were just so raw and powerful,” Hagar recalled. “They brought a whole new level of energy to rock music, and that energy is still felt today.” He highlighted the band's ability to connect with audiences on a visceral level.

Even younger artists like Yungblud recognize the significance of Black Sabbath's contribution. “They’re just legends, man,” Yungblud declared. “They paved the way for so many bands, including mine. Their music is timeless and continues to inspire.” He spoke about the band’s influence on his own musical explorations and willingness to push boundaries.

The farewell show at Villa Park was more than just a concert; it was a celebration of a career spanning five decades and a testament to the band’s lasting impact on music and culture. The artists interviewed all expressed a profound sense of gratitude and admiration for Black Sabbath, acknowledging the pivotal role they played in shaping the landscape of rock music. As the curtain falls on this legendary chapter, the echoes of Black Sabbath’s music will undoubtedly continue to resonate for generations to come.

The night was a poignant reminder of the power of music to connect people, transcend generations, and leave an indelible mark on the world. And the words of these musical giants serve as a powerful tribute to the band that started it all – Black Sabbath.