Black Sabbath's Historic Recording Equipment to Be Exhibited in Birmingham

BIRMINGHAM, UK — In a remarkable rediscovery, the original recording equipment used by the legendary heavy metal band Black Sabbath during their formative years will be displayed to the public for the first time in over three decades. The exhibition, featuring a mixing desk, microphone, and two Revox tape machines, will coincide with the band's highly anticipated final concert at Villa Park on July 4, 2025, and will be held at Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens.

John Mostyn, a music industry professional and organizer of the exhibit, emphasized the significance of the event, stating, "This exhibition reflects the birth of heavy metal in Birmingham, showcasing the tools that helped shape a genre that has influenced countless artists worldwide." The equipment is on loan from Johnny Haynes, the owner of Zella Studios, where Black Sabbath recorded their early material.

According to Haynes, who is now 83 years old, the first version of Zella Studios was established in 1968 at the back of an old repair room of Ladbrooke Pianos on Bristol Street. It was here that Black Sabbath, then known as Earth, recorded their first demo. "We had an excellent demo session, organized by Big Bear Music, and the resultant recordings were well received," Haynes recalled. However, following their initial success, the band relocated to London, only to return to Birmingham due to unsatisfactory recording experiences in the capital.

The equipment on display, which has been in storage since the studio's closure in 1995, represents a critical piece of music history. Mostyn noted that the rediscovery process took six months, culminating in the recent finding of the equipment. "It’s been stored for more than 30 years, and this is likely to be the only chance ever to be close to it in person," he urged fans.

The exhibition will open on July 4 and will run until July 6, providing fans with a unique opportunity to engage with the artifacts that contributed to the band's iconic sound. Mostyn also highlighted the presence of Johnny Haynes at the exhibition, stating, "This is a very rare outing for a very popular gentleman, which will attract many of his old musician friends and music industry personnel."

Black Sabbath, known for their pioneering contributions to heavy metal, comprises lead vocalist Ozzy Osbourne, guitarist Tony Iommi, bassist Geezer Butler, and drummer Bill Ward. Their transformation from Earth to Black Sabbath marked a pivotal moment in music history, leading to their eventual signing with a record label and the subsequent release of their groundbreaking albums.

The legacy of Black Sabbath continues to resonate within the music industry, and this exhibition serves as a testament to their impact. As the band gears up for their final performance, the rediscovery of their original recording equipment not only honors their past but also invites a new generation of fans to appreciate the roots of heavy metal.

For further information on the exhibition and to purchase tickets to the final concert, fans are encouraged to follow official updates from the band and the exhibition organizers.