Birmingham city centre rocked on Saturday, 28 June, as all four founding members of Black Sabbath came together to visit and sign the striking new Navigation Street artwork – a tribute to the band that helped define heavy metal and a city that shaped them.
Commissioned by Central BID Birmingham and created by Birmingham-born and now globally-renowned Mr Murals, the eye-catching mural has already been stopping visitors in their tracks – but it reached a whole new level of significance as Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward gathered to add their names to the bricks and give their personal seal of approval.
The mural – just steps from New Street station – is fast becoming one of the city’s most photographed landmarks and a must-visit selfie spot for fans making the pilgrimage to Birmingham during the Summer of Sabbath.
All pictures: Darren Quinton/Touchstone Visuals/Central BID
This unforgettable visit was part of a wider moment in the global spotlight, as music lovers from across the world arrived in Birmingham for two major events:
The epic Back to the Beginning tribute gig at Villa Park, bringing together international artists and local talent to celebrate Sabbath’s roots and legacy.
Ozzy Osbourne’s ‘Working Class Hero’ exhibition at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery, which is packed with awards and stories about his rise from the back streets of Aston to global stardom.
Together, these events are shining a light on Birmingham’s proud musical heritage and the new Navigation Street mural is fast becoming a symbol of that pride.
The mural features bold imagery inspired by Sabbath’s music and legacy. The addition of the band’s signatures makes it not just a piece of art but a true landmark.
Central BID is proud to have commissioned the work as part of its mission to support the city’s cultural identity and create engaging, welcoming spaces for everyone who lives, works, or visits here.
“This is more than just a mural – it’s part of the story of Birmingham,” said Sam Watson, Chair, Central BID.
“To have Ozzy, Tony, Geezer and Bill come down and sign the wall themselves was an incredible honour, and it shows just how much Birmingham means to them – and how much they mean to Birmingham.”
With the Summer of Sabbath in full swing, and visitors from all over the world pouring into the city, the mural is already helping create unforgettable first impressions for those arriving by train into New Street station.
Central BID is continuing to support the season with city dressing, maps and guides, and social media storytelling that celebrates Birmingham’s musical roots.
Visitors can find the mural on Navigation Street. Don’t forget to take a photo, share your moment, and tag #SummerOfSabbath.
All pictures: Darren Quinton/Touchstone Visuals/Central BID