Yungblud Releases Official Live Cover of Black Sabbath’s “Changes” from Villa Park Farewell Concert
Yungblud’s official release of his powerful live cover of Black Sabbath’s “Changes” marks a defining moment in modern rock history. Captured during the monumental “Back to the Beginning” farewell concert at Villa Park on July 5, 2025, this performance instantly became a talking point not just for fans, but for music lovers worldwide. For many, this was the first time hearing “Changes” performed with such raw energy and emotion, and the impact was immediate.
The “Back to the Beginning” concert itself was more than just a show—it was a historic event that brought together the original lineup of Black Sabbath for what was billed as their final appearance on home soil. The excitement in Birmingham had been building for months, with fans traveling from across the globe to witness a farewell that felt both triumphant and deeply bittersweet. Villa Park, already hallowed ground for local football supporters, transformed into a cathedral of heavy metal, echoing with decades of musical legacy.
Yungblud, born Dominic Harrison, was handpicked by Ozzy Osbourne himself to deliver a fresh take on one of Sabbath’s most soulful tracks. The selection was no accident; Yungblud’s fearless approach to music and his ability to channel vulnerability through a modern lens made him the perfect artist to breathe new life into “Changes.” Backed by Nuno Bettencourt on guitar, Frank Bello on bass, Sleep Token’s enigmatic II on drums, and the legendary Adam Wakeman on keyboards, the stage was set for an unforgettable collaboration.
As the opening notes rang out through the stadium, anticipation reached a fever pitch. The crowd—numbering nearly 45,000—fell into a hush as Yungblud’s voice soared, blending perfectly with the subtle power of the band behind him. Those who had only known the original version of “Changes” were visibly moved, and social media quickly erupted with praise for this bold reimagining.
One of the most striking elements of Yungblud’s performance was the emotional connection he forged with the audience. His expressive delivery captured both the pain and hope that define “Changes,” striking a chord with listeners of all ages. It was a generational bridge: the classic Sabbath fanbase standing shoulder to shoulder with a new wave of Yungblud devotees, all united in the shared experience of a timeless song reinvented for a new era.
Ozzy Osbourne, standing just offstage, watched intently as Yungblud poured his heart into every lyric. Later, Ozzy’s praise was unequivocal: “He did an amazing job. I couldn’t have done it better myself.” This endorsement from the Prince of Darkness himself only fueled the growing excitement around the performance and its subsequent release.
When the single officially dropped on July 18, 2025, across all major streaming platforms, the reaction was explosive. Listeners described being moved to tears, with many commenting that they had never heard “Changes” delivered with such honesty and soul. Music critics echoed this sentiment, calling the cover “career-affirming” for Yungblud and an inspired tribute to Sabbath’s enduring influence.
Importantly, all proceeds from the single are being donated to three key charities: Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorns Children’s Hospice. This philanthropic effort underscores the spirit of the entire “Back to the Beginning” event, where the legacy of Black Sabbath was celebrated not just with music, but with a commitment to making a tangible difference in the world.
The concert itself was filled with highlights beyond “Changes.” Black Sabbath ran through a blistering setlist of classics—“War Pigs,” “Iron Man,” “Children of the Grave,” and “Paranoid”—each greeted with rapturous applause from the sea of fans. For many in attendance, seeing the original lineup back on stage in their hometown was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, a fitting bookend to a half-century of musical innovation.
Villa Park, long known as the home of Aston Villa Football Club, has hosted countless memorable events over its storied history. Yet, as local media reported, the “Back to the Beginning” concert was something altogether different—a cultural moment that transcended sports and music alike. The entire city of Birmingham seemed to pulse with energy, pride, and nostalgia.
Yungblud’s involvement added an unexpected yet welcome twist to the proceedings. His ability to honor Sabbath’s legacy while putting his own stamp on “Changes” reflected the broader theme of the night: music as a living, evolving force that unites past and present. Fans young and old mingled in the stands, sharing stories of discovering Sabbath or, in some cases, passing down records from parent to child.
The choice to release Yungblud’s performance as a charity single only heightened its impact. It transformed a fleeting moment of concert magic into a lasting contribution—one that will help countless people in need. For Yungblud, this opportunity was both a career milestone and a deeply personal honor. As he wrote on social media, “This was the biggest moment of my entire life. I’m honored to be part of something that gives back to the community and pays tribute to true legends.”
Reactions from within the music industry were equally enthusiastic. Fellow performers and industry insiders hailed Yungblud’s cover as a defining moment in his rapidly rising career. Many noted that the performance had managed to do the impossible: breathe new life into a classic while respecting the original’s spirit.
In the days following the concert and the single’s release, clips of Yungblud’s performance went viral online. Fans posted emotional reactions, some recalling their own memories of hearing “Changes” for the first time, while others marveled at the unique blend of old and new embodied in the live recording. The hashtags #VillaPark, #YungbludChanges, and #BackToTheBeginning trended across platforms.
As the dust settles, one thing is clear: Yungblud’s rendition of “Changes” at Villa Park will be remembered as a watershed moment for both the artist and the legendary band he paid tribute to. The official release ensures that new generations of listeners will discover, and be moved by, this extraordinary performance for years to come.
For Black Sabbath, “Back to the Beginning” was a celebration, a farewell, and a reminder of music’s power to unite, heal, and inspire. Thanks to Yungblud, that message resonates even louder. And for everyone lucky enough to be there—or to experience it now through the single—the night at Villa Park will remain a memory for the ages.
