- Soundgarden Release Statement on Not Attending Black Sabbath’s Final Concert
July 14, 2025 — Legendary rock band Soundgarden has issued a public statement addressing their absence from Black Sabbath’s highly anticipated final concert, which took place last weekend in Birmingham, England.
Fans were quick to notice the absence of Soundgarden, a band heavily influenced by Black Sabbath, from the historic farewell performance that brought together a number of prominent rock and metal acts. With speculation mounting across social media platforms, Soundgarden has now clarified the situation in an official message to their fans and the music community.
In the statement, the band expressed deep respect and admiration for Black Sabbath’s legacy, calling them “one of the most important and groundbreaking bands in rock history.” Soundgarden acknowledged the impact Sabbath had on shaping their own musical direction and praised the British pioneers for their enduring influence across generations.
However, the band cited “unavoidable scheduling conflicts and prior commitments” as the reason for their absence. “It was an incredibly difficult decision not to be there in person,” the statement reads. “Black Sabbath’s music has been part of our DNA since the beginning, and we send them all our gratitude, admiration, and congratulations on an extraordinary final show.”
Soundgarden also thanked fans who reached out, expressing both disappointment and understanding. “Your passion and support mean the world to us. We were with Sabbath in spirit, and we know how much this night meant to so many.”
While Soundgarden did not specify what the conflicting commitments were, sources close to the band suggest they are currently in the studio working on new material.
Black Sabbath’s final performance marked the end of a monumental era in rock and heavy metal. The show featured original members Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, and Geezer Butler, and closed with a thunderous rendition of “Paranoid,” to a sold-out crowd and global livestream audience.
Though Soundgarden wasn’t in attendance, their message has been warmly received by fans and fellow musicians alike, underscoring the deep bond and mutual respect shared within the rock community.
