Metallica took the stage with purpose on Saturday (July 5th) in Birmingham, England, serving as the final act before Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath closed out their legendary careers at the “Back to the Beginning” concert—a historic night marking the end of an era for heavy metal.
James Hetfield and the band kicked off their set with a fiery rendition of Black Sabbath’s “Hole in the Sky,” a fitting tribute to the pioneers who made the night possible. From there, they tore through their own classics “Creeping Death” and “For Whom the Bell Tolls” before circling back to Sabbath with a rare live cover of “Johnny Blade.” Metallica kept the energy surging with “Battery” and closed with the fan-favorite anthem “Master of Puppets.”
Their performance followed a stacked lineup that included Guns N’ Roses, Slayer, Tool, Pantera, Gojira, and more, along with superjam appearances from members of Rage Against the Machine, The Smashing Pumpkins, Ghost, Aerosmith, and other rock heavyweights, making it a true celebration of metal’s past, present, and future.
Before the show, Metallica’s Lars Ulrich and Robert Trujillo shared their reflections with Heavy Consequence on what it meant to stand alongside Black Sabbath on such a monumental night, emphasizing the honor of being part of Sabbath’s final chapter.
Michael Bublé knows how to make his musical heroes proud, effortlessly slipping into their styles with uncanny accuracy. From the velvet croon of Sinatra to the unmistakable vibrato of Elvis, Bublé’s talent for mimicking legends is more than a party trick—it’s been a cornerstone of his artistic journey.
Back in 2016, Bublé sat down with Dan Rather on AXS-TV and showcased these impressions while reflecting on how deeply he studied the greats. “You have a reputation for being a good mimic. Can you do a few?” Rather asked. With a smile, Bublé recalled advice he once received from Tony Bennett: “Michael, you steal from everybody, and it’s research. You steal from one, you’re just a thief.” Bublé explained that by absorbing what he admired from his idols, he collected the essence of their techniques, slowly shaping it into his own voice.
He noted how Sinatra would “sing hard on his vowels” before offering a quick, lively snippet of “You Make Me Feel So Young,” a track Bublé would later cover on his To Be Loved album in 2013. He described Dean Martin’s relaxed, open-throated delivery as something he loved, noting that Elvis shared a similar style but with a richer depth and a quick vibrato, which Bublé demonstrated with a heartfelt line from “Can’t Help Falling in Love.”
Michael Bublé does his impressions of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash 😱👏 axstv michaelbublé jazzmusic popmusic franksinatra deanmartin elvis johnnycash
Rather was visibly impressed, telling Bublé, “You could make a living just doing that.” Laughing, Bublé replied, “There’s been times in my life when I feel like I have.”
Fast forward to 2024, and Bublé was reflecting on this journey during The Voice Season 26, explaining how these early imitations became the path to discovering his own sound. “I just wanted to make it mine, and I did,” he shared. It wasn’t an overnight transformation; Bublé admitted that it took years to evolve from a young man mimicking his heroes to finding the “Michael Bublé thing” that audiences around the world recognize today.
His inspirations weren’t limited to jazz and swing icons, either. “I was as into the Beastie Boys and Michael Jackson as I was into Dean Martin or Bobby Darin,” Bublé shared. This wide-ranging love for music allowed him to blend elements of modern pop with the classic American songbook, creating a unique style that felt both timeless and fresh—one that audiences connected with immediately.
By learning from the best, Michael Bublé didn’t just copy; he crafted a sound that carries the spirit of the greats while leaving space for his own voice to shine. And in doing so, he’s found a place where old-school cool and contemporary energy meet, reminding us that even the finest artists started by being fans first.z
Heavy metal’s birthplace witnessed history as Black Sabbath took the stage for their final live performance in Birmingham, closing the chapter where it all began with a powerful rendition of “War Pigs.”
The End of an Era, Where It All Began
The “Back to the Beginning” show was more than just another concert—it was a celebration of heavy metal’s roots, a heartfelt farewell to fans, and a tribute to a band that forever changed the landscape of music. Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and the band’s extended family returned to Birmingham, the city that forged their sound, for one last stand.
As the first haunting siren and drum beats of “War Pigs” filled the arena, the atmosphere shifted. Thousands of fans, from those who grew up spinning Paranoid on vinyl to younger generations discovering the band through streaming, stood together in collective anticipation, knowing they were witnessing a moment that would echo through rock history.
A Performance Charged with Emotion and Power
Ozzy’s voice, raw and unwavering, carried the song’s anti-war message across the venue, reminding everyone of the band’s rebellious spirit and timeless relevance. Tony Iommi’s guitar roared with the unmistakable riff that launched countless bands into existence, while Geezer’s bass provided the heavy undercurrent that has defined Sabbath’s sound since day one.
Fans raised their horns, sang every word, and swayed under the glow of stage lights, tears mixing with smiles as the weight of the moment settled in. It wasn’t just another live performance; it was a final call, a salute to decades of heavy metal, and a thank you to the fans who carried Sabbath’s legacy forward.
Capturing the Moment
Social media lit up as fans from around the world tuned into the live stream, sharing clips of the performance, their memories of discovering Black Sabbath, and the role “War Pigs” played in shaping their love for music.
One fan posted:
“Seeing Sabbath perform ‘War Pigs’ for the last time in Birmingham is something I’ll never forget. The end of an era, but the music will live forever.”
Ending with “War Pigs” was symbolic. It’s a song that encapsulates the essence of Black Sabbath: heavy, unflinching, and unafraid to confront the realities of the world. It’s a song that inspired countless bands, touched generations, and became an anthem for those who found strength in its message.
As the final notes rang out and Ozzy waved goodbye, the arena erupted in a mixture of cheers and bittersweet applause. It was a farewell, but also a promise that Black Sabbath’s music, message, and spirit will continue to resonate for generations to come.
At Saturday’s Back to the Beginning concert, Guns N’ Roses delivered a roaring salute to the godfathers of heavy metal by tearing into four Black Sabbath covers that had the crowd on its feet and craving more.
The long-anticipated event, which united some of hard rock and metal’s biggest names, was a celebration of Sabbath’s enduring legacy, with artists performing both their own hits and Sabbath classics in honour of Ozzy Osbourne’s farewell.
Axl Rose set the tone by opening with “It’s Alright” from 1976’s Technical Ecstasy, his vocals capturing the soulful essence of the track while Slash’s guitar added a bluesy edge. Without missing a beat, the band shifted into the driving power of “Never Say Die”, bringing fresh energy to the 1978 title track and igniting the crowd with its relentless pace.
They kept the Sabbath tribute rolling with “Junior’s Eyes,” digging into its deep grooves with layered guitars and pounding drums, while Axl’s vocals balanced rawness and reverence for Ozzy’s original delivery. The quartet of covers closed with an electrifying “Sabbath Bloody Sabbath,” its iconic riff ringing out like a thunderclap across the venue, reminding everyone of the heavy sound that shaped generations.
After paying tribute, Guns N’ Roses turned up the nostalgia for their own fans, closing the six-song set with thunderous renditions of “Welcome to the Jungle” and “Paradise City.” It was a perfect blend of eras, linking Sabbath’s legacy with the enduring fire of GNR’s catalogue.
Three of the Guns N’ Roses Sabbath covers from the show are already circulating online, and they are well worth a watch if you want to witness the raw, live energy of GNR paying homage to their heroes.
Fans can still purchase live streaming access for the remainder of the show through the concert’s official website if you don’t want to miss this once-in-a-lifetime event.
The X Factor 2024 finale was always set to be a night of raw emotion, high stakes, and future stars, but it was Robbie Williams who transformed it into a night to remember. Returning to the show that has launched countless chart-toppers, the British pop icon delivered a high-voltage medley of his greatest hits, reminding everyone exactly why he remains a cornerstone of UK pop.
From the opening thump of the bass, you could feel it in the air — something special was about to happen. Kicking off with the electric “Let Me Entertain You,” Robbie, dressed in a sleek black suit shimmering under the lights, commanded the stage with the ease of a legend who’s done this his whole life. Instantly, the entire arena was on its feet, clapping, shouting, and singing every word back at him.
The energy only soared higher as he slid into “Rock DJ.” The lights strobed in sync with the pounding beat, dancers flooded the stage, and bursts of pyrotechnics exploded overhead. Robbie’s unmistakable voice cut through it all with joyful defiance, proving his charisma hasn’t dulled one bit over the years. It was a reminder that when it comes to pure, feel-good pop spectacle, few can match him.
Then, the night took a tender turn. The first notes of “Angels” echoed softly across the venue, and the frenetic energy melted into something heartfelt and timeless. Alone in the spotlight, Robbie delivered each lyric with raw honesty, letting the song’s emotional power do the talking. Fans swayed, lights in hand, many wiping tears as they sang along to a song that has become a soundtrack to countless moments in their lives.
As the last notes of “Angels” drifted away, Robbie paused, looking out at the sea of faces before him. “This stage has made so many dreams real,” he said, voice warm with gratitude. “It’s a privilege to still be here, doing what I love.” The arena erupted, the applause echoing the sentiment of everyone watching.
To close the medley, he launched into “Feel,” letting his vocals soar as the music built into a sweeping, anthemic finale. The crowd roared, living every note with him, in a moment that felt like both a celebration of Robbie’s past and a promise that he’s far from done.
As the lights dimmed, social media exploded. Hashtags like #RobbieWilliams and #XFactorFinale were trending within minutes, with fans calling it “a performance for the ages” and “proof that legends don’t fade.”
On a night dedicated to discovering tomorrow’s stars, Robbie Williams proved that true icons continue to shine brightly, generation after generation. His medley wasn’t just a performance — it was a reminder of why we fell in love with pop music in the first place: connection, energy, and those moments when the music makes you feel alive.
Their pairing on the timeless 1934 classic “The Very Thought of You” feels like a beautiful surprise. At first glance, Streisand’s crystalline, powerhouse vocals and Dylan’s famously gravelly, understated delivery might seem worlds apart. Yet, on this track, the two legends find a shared warmth that brings fresh life to the beloved standard.
Dylan’s vocals here are gentle and unhurried, weaving seamlessly with Streisand’s elegant phrasing and the song’s lush, jazz-infused arrangement. Adding a lively touch is Grégoire Maret’s bright harmonica, dancing softly between verses and giving the duet a nostalgic charm.
Dylan is no stranger to reimagining standards, having released Shadows in the Night (2015), Fallen Angels (2016), and Triplicate (2017), albums that paid homage to songs associated with Frank Sinatra. But teaming up with Streisand, who herself has defined vocal excellence for generations, offers a rare meeting of two titans from different corners of music history.
In a recent conversation with The New Yorker, Streisand shared the story behind finally working with Dylan. She recalled that decades ago, Dylan had reached out to her with the idea of recording together, but the timing wasn’t right. Now, Streisand says, she’s grateful they could finally share a song.
“It was wonderful to have picked ‘The Very Thought of You,’ a song he loved,” Streisand shared. “He’s very shy, like I am. But he was wonderful to work with.”
Despite Dylan’s reputation for resisting direction, Streisand described how open he was during the recording process. “He stood on his feet for three hours with me. Everything I’d heard about him just went out the window,” she added, calling their studio time together “extraordinary.”
Both Streisand, now 82, and Dylan, 84, spent their early years navigating New York’s Greenwich Village, shaping their artistry in the heart of the city’s vibrant music scene, though they never crossed paths back then.
Years later, it surfaced that Dylan had originally written his 1969 hit “Lay Lady Lay” with Streisand in mind as the singer. When this revelation became public in 2020, Streisand responded with warmth:
“I’m very flattered to find out that Bob Dylan wrote ‘Lay Lady Lay’ for me. I remember getting flowers from him with a handwritten note asking me to sing a duet, but I just couldn’t imagine it then. Guess what, Bob, I can imagine doing it now.”
Now, that imagined duet has become a reality.
Released on June 27, The Secret of Life: Partners, Volume Two continues Streisand’s tradition of pairing her iconic voice with some of the world’s most celebrated artists. The album, a follow-up to her 2014 chart-topping Partners, includes duets with Paul McCartney, James Taylor, Mariah Carey, Ariana Grande, Sting, Tim McGraw, Sam Smith, Hozier, Seal, Josh Groban, and Laufey.
Co-produced by Peter Asher and Walter Afanasieff, the album is available on CD, blush-colored vinyl, and all digital platforms. Physical editions feature intimate photos from Streisand’s personal archives and detailed notes on each track, giving listeners a glimpse into the stories behind these powerful collaborations.
It wasn’t just a performance. It was a moment that felt suspended in air, a hush across the room as history came alive through song.
Back in 2013 at the American Country Awards, LeAnn Rimes stepped onto the stage to honor one of her lifelong inspirations: the legendary Patsy Cline. But what unfolded was far more than a medley—it became a living tribute that continues to move country music fans, even years later.
Under soft lights and a black-and-white broadcast that pulled viewers back in time, Rimes delivered a heartfelt medley of Cline’s most beloved songs:
🎶 “Leavin’ On Your Mind”
🎶 “Crazy”
🎶 “I Fall to Pieces”
🎶 “She’s Got You”
🎶 “Sweet Dreams”
🎶 “Walkin’ After Midnight”
These weren’t just songs; they were pieces of a legacy that defined country music. And as LeAnn sang, she didn’t simply cover these classics—she lived them, letting the weight of each lyric and the spirit of each melody flow through her voice with unguarded vulnerability.
LeAnn Rimes has long expressed her admiration for Patsy Cline, a connection that extends beyond music. From a young age, Rimes found herself drawn to Cline’s emotive delivery and fearless artistry.
Though separated by decades, many listeners have commented on the uncanny resemblance between their vocal tones and the raw emotional honesty both artists bring to the stage. The long-standing rumor that “Blue” was meant for Cline—though officially debunked—only adds to the perceived bond between these two icons.
To capture the era Patsy Cline helped define, the tribute was staged in elegant black and white, giving it a timeless aesthetic. Dressed in a flowing white gown, hair styled in soft vintage waves, and standing before an old-fashioned microphone, Rimes became a bridge to another era.
And then she sang.
Her voice rang out, clear and aching, every note steeped in reverence. It was more than technique—it was heart, memory, and respect all wrapped in song. By the medley’s end, overwhelmed by emotion, tears streamed down LeAnn’s face as she broke down onstage, unable to hold back the depth of what she felt in that moment.
It wasn’t planned. It wasn’t polished. It was real.
LeAnn Rimes’ performance was not simply a salute to Patsy Cline’s music; it was a heartfelt promise to keep that spirit alive. Few artists could capture the essence of Cline’s songs with the same emotional gravity, but that night, LeAnn Rimes did more than sing—she honored a woman who paved the way for countless artists, including herself.
It was a reminder that music’s greatest power lies in connection—between artist and audience, between past and present.
For those who witnessed that tribute, it was a rare and precious gift: a moment where the spirit of a legend was felt once again, and where the music that built country’s foundation continued to find new life.
When Keith Urban hits the stage, it’s never just another concert—it’s a deeply felt experience that lingers long after the final note fades. With his guitar slung over his shoulder and an open heart that reaches every corner of the venue, Urban transforms every show into a journey fans will never forget.
Whether he’s delivering an intimate acoustic moment, harmonizing with fellow stars, or spotlighting young talent before thousands, Keith Urban continues to inspire fans across the globe. Here are three unforgettable live moments that prove why he remains a pillar of country music.
“My Heart’s Like a Hometown” – A Night to Remember at the Grand Ole Opry
Beneath the warm glow of the Grand Ole Opry lights, Keith Urban poured his soul into “My Heart’s Like a Hometown.” Each lyric resonated through the historic hall, bringing the audience into a world of childhood streets, familiar faces, and the comforting embrace of home.
“He didn’t just sing it—he lived it,” one attendee shared.
Urban’s performance became more than just a song; it was a heartfelt reminder of where we come from and the places that shape us, reminding everyone why his music continues to strike such a deep chord.
Keith Urban & Sugarland – “Seven Bridges Road” (The Eagles Cover)
Few moments capture the magic of live music like this one.
In a surprise collaboration that thrilled the audience, Keith Urban joined forces with Sugarland for a powerful cover of The Eagles’ “Seven Bridges Road.” Their harmonies wove together seamlessly, filling the venue with warmth and an energy that had fans singing along, lost in the beauty of the moment.
“It gave me goosebumps the whole way through,” a fan posted afterward.
The chemistry on stage was undeniable, the joy infectious, creating a performance that quickly became a highlight shared and replayed across the internet by fans worldwide.
An Unforgettable Duet with 11-Year-Old Lauren Spencer-Smith
Sometimes the most powerful moments happen when you least expect them.
In front of a roaring crowd, Keith Urban invited 11-year-old Lauren Spencer-Smith to join him on stage. What unfolded was a breathtaking duet, with Lauren’s mature, soulful voice harmonizing with Keith in a performance that left many in tears.
Urban’s encouragement and warmth created the perfect space for Lauren to shine, showcasing his ability to not just perform but uplift others along the way.
“He believed in her, and you could feel it,” one concertgoer recalled.
The touching duet quickly captured hearts online, gathering millions of views and inspiring countless fans.
Keith Urban doesn’t just take the stage to perform; he invites the audience into his world, sharing stories through music with authenticity and heart. His concerts feel personal, whether in a packed stadium or under the historic lights of the Opry, turning songs into living memories.
He creates moments that last a lifetime—moments of nostalgia, joy, and inspiration that remind us why music matters.
In what is already being hailed as one of the most electrifying live moments of 2025, Travis Barker (Blink-182), Danny Carey (Tool), and Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers) joined forces for an unforgettable “Drum Off – Back to the Beginning” that left the audience in stunned silence before erupting in a standing ovation.
The event, held at the Los Angeles Forum as part of the “Back to the Beginning” live series, brought together three of the most respected drummers in modern rock for a once-in-a-lifetime jam that celebrated the art of drumming while honoring the rhythms that shaped generations.
The Moment Everyone Will Remember
At one point, all three locked into a primal tribal groove, turning the Forum into a pulsating sea of claps and cheers. The synergy on stage was undeniable, as they exchanged smiles and challenged each other with escalating complexity before exploding into a synchronized finale that rattled the walls.
Fans took to social media immediately, calling it:
“The greatest live drum performance I’ve ever seen.” “A historic moment for drummers everywhere.” “Proof that rhythm is the heartbeat of music.”
In a world where electronic beats often dominate charts, the “Drum Off – Back to the Beginning” was a reminder of the raw, human power of live drumming and the irreplaceable energy of skilled musicians pushing each other to new heights.
For young drummers watching, it was an inspiring call to pick up the sticks and discover the joy of rhythm. For longtime music fans, it was a nostalgic yet forward-looking celebration of why drums remain the lifeblood of rock, metal, and beyond.
The 2025 Black Sabbath Tribute Concert was already shaping up to be a night for the ages, but no one was quite prepared for the moment Steven Tyler stepped onto the stage, took the mic, and unleashed a blistering rendition of Led Zeppelin’s “Whole Lotta Love.”
It was the kind of moment that reminds you why live music matters.
The arena was buzzing with Sabbath fans gathered to celebrate the godfathers of heavy metal, with tributes pouring in from across the rock world. Yet, in the middle of a night honoring Tony Iommi’s crushing riffs and Ozzy’s unforgettable stage presence, Steven Tyler’s surprise tribute to Zeppelin felt perfectly at home, capturing the restless spirit and raw edge that connect Sabbath and Zeppelin at their core.
As soon as Tyler let out that iconic “You need coolin’, baby, I’m not foolin’,” the entire place erupted. His unmistakable screech cut through the air with the same ferocity that made Aerosmith one of rock’s greatest forces, while the band behind him tore into Jimmy Page’s legendary riffs with a thunderous precision that rattled the seats.
What made this performance even more powerful was its pure, live energy. Tyler danced across the stage, scarf-laden mic stand in hand, channeling Robert Plant while still making the song his own. His vocal improvisations soared during the breakdown, turning the classic into a moment of communal catharsis for thousands of fans who sang every line back with him.
This wasn’t just a cover. It was a statement about the enduring bloodline of rock and metal – how Sabbath, Zeppelin, and Aerosmith all cracked open the doors of heavy music in different ways, leaving behind riffs and screams that still resonate decades later.
As the band crashed into the final chorus, lights flashing and fists pumping in the air, it was clear: Steven Tyler had given the Black Sabbath Tribute a moment that no one would forget.
Rock isn’t just alive; it’s thriving, passed down from Sabbath to Zeppelin to Tyler and to every single fan who stood there screaming the words to “Whole Lotta Love” at the top of their lungs, remembering why they fell in love with music in the first place.
