original statement, celebrating Geezer Butler’s 76th birthday and referencing the performance of “N.I.B.” at Back to the Beginning:
Happy 76th Birthday to Geezer Butler of Black Sabbath – Watch “N.I.B.” from ‘Back To The Beginning’
By Glider
Today, we celebrate the 76th birthday of one of heavy metal’s most influential figures—Geezer Butler, the legendary bassist and primary lyricist of Black Sabbath. Born on July 17, 1949, in Birmingham, England, Butler helped shape the sound and spirit of heavy metal alongside bandmates Tony Iommi, Ozzy Osbourne, and Bill Ward.
Known for his dark, philosophical lyrics and pioneering bass work, Geezer’s contributions to Black Sabbath’s music—especially in classics like “War Pigs,” “Paranoid,” and “N.I.B.”—remain iconic. His basslines, often distorted and thunderous, added a menacing depth to the band’s already ominous tone and set a new standard for metal bassists to follow.
In honor of his milestone birthday, fans can revisit one of his most memorable performances: “N.I.B.” at Back To The Beginning. This powerful rendition showcases Butler’s signature playing and lyrical storytelling, proving why the song remains a fan favorite decades after its release.
As the architect of some of metal’s darkest and most poetic lyrics, and as a trailblazer of the genre’s rhythm section, Geezer Butler continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.
Happy Birthday, Geezer! Here’s to your monumental legacy and the riffs that shook the world.
