Yungblud to Release Emotional “Changes” Performance From Back to the Beginning — Streaming This Friday
One of the most unforgettable moments from Back to the Beginning is about to reach an even wider audience. Yungblud’s breathtaking cover of Black Sabbath’s “Changes” — a performance that stunned fans and fellow musicians alike — is officially set for release on Friday, July 18.
The track, captured live during the historic farewell concert at Villa Park, has quickly become the stuff of modern rock legend. When the lights dimmed and Yungblud took the stage alongside a lineup of musical heavyweights — Nuno Bettencourt, Frank Bello, II of Sleep Token, and Adam Wakeman — few could have anticipated the raw, emotional power of what was to follow. By the time the final piano chords rang out, the crowd of more than 40,000 was on its feet, united in awe and reflection.
Now, that singular moment will live on beyond that night. Fans worldwide will be able to experience, or relive, the magic when “Changes” lands on all major streaming platforms this Friday. And as if the music itself weren’t meaningful enough, proceeds from the release will go toward Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorn’s Children’s Hospice — three organizations chosen for their profound impact on countless lives.
A Tribute That Transcended the Stage
Originally, the performance was dedicated to the memory of Diogo Jota, the late Liverpool footballer whose sudden passing left a deep void in both sport and culture. Yungblud, himself a proud Northerner known for his connection to British youth culture, has often spoken about how football and music share a similar power: to bring people together. That night at Villa Park, the two worlds collided in a way that felt cathartic and healing.
Stripped of pyrotechnics and the frenzied energy usually associated with his live shows, Yungblud stood center stage under a single spotlight. The arrangement began with Adam Wakeman’s plaintive piano lines — instantly recognizable to Sabbath fans, yet achingly fresh in this new context. Bettencourt’s delicate guitar textures wove around Frank Bello’s subtle, grounding basslines, while II from Sleep Token added atmospheric depth with haunting vocal harmonies.
As Yungblud delivered the opening lines, his voice wavered, not with weakness but with emotion. It was a sound that felt simultaneously vulnerable and unshakable. “I feel unhappy, I feel so sad,” he sang, the words heavy with meaning far beyond their original intent. Throughout the performance, the crowd remained rapt, many visibly moved, some holding scarves aloft in silent tribute to Jota.
A Historic Night, A Timeless Song
Back to the Beginning was no ordinary concert. Conceived as a farewell gathering for some of rock’s most enduring icons, it transformed Villa Park into a cathedral of sound and memory. Legends shared the stage with rising stars, proving that rock’s torch is far from extinguished. Among a night full of electrifying moments, the hushed intimacy of “Changes” stood out — a poignant reminder that rock ’n’ roll is as much about heart as it is about volume.
The original “Changes,” released by Black Sabbath in 1972, was itself a departure for the band. Known for pioneering heavy metal, Sabbath surprised fans with this piano-driven ballad about loss, change, and moving on. Over the decades, it has remained a fan favorite, covered by various artists, but rarely with the reverence and intensity shown in Yungblud’s performance.
By choosing this song, Yungblud not only paid homage to one of his musical heroes but also connected generations of listeners. In his own words, shared in the press release for the single:
“This was hands down one of the biggest moments of my life. To honor one of my heroes in front of that crowd — and now help raise money for causes that matter — that’s what rock ‘n’ roll is all about.”
More Than Just a Release
For fans, this isn’t simply another live recording; it’s a chance to own a piece of history. The proceeds benefiting Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorn’s Children’s Hospice make the release all the more significant. Each stream and purchase will directly support research, treatment, and care for those in need.
Cure Parkinson’s, in particular, has a long-standing connection to the UK music community, with numerous artists lending their voices and talents to raise awareness for the condition. Birmingham Children’s Hospital is celebrated for its world-class pediatric care, while Acorn’s Children’s Hospice provides essential support to families during life’s most challenging moments. By tying this deeply personal tribute to such causes, Yungblud reinforces the idea that music can be a force for tangible good.
The Legacy of a Moment
Social media has been ablaze ever since footage of the Villa Park performance first surfaced. TikTok clips capturing Yungblud’s tear-streaked face as he sang the final chorus racked up millions of views within days. Instagram and Twitter have been filled with fan art, edits, and personal stories from those who found solace in that song. Many have described how the performance helped them process their own grief, proving that music’s reach extends far beyond the artist’s intention.
Even fellow musicians have chimed in with praise. Nuno Bettencourt, in a behind-the-scenes video shared later, called the collaboration “a moment that reminded me why we play music in the first place.” Frank Bello echoed that sentiment: “We came together for something bigger than ourselves. You could feel that energy on stage, and you can hear it in every note.”
What to Expect
While the single will be the exact audio from the live performance, there are also whispers of a companion video — possibly a full HD cut of the Villa Park rendition, interspersed with behind-the-scenes footage and tributes to Diogo Jota. Though not officially confirmed, fans are hopeful that this visual element might follow shortly after the audio release.
For now, anticipation builds toward Friday. Pre‑save links are already circulating, and Yungblud himself has been active on social media, sharing countdown posts and snippets from rehearsals. His fanbase, known as the Black Hearts Club, is organizing streaming parties and online fundraisers to amplify the charitable impact.
A Night That Will Live Forever
In the end, this release is more than just a song. It’s a snapshot of a night when rock’s past, present, and future converged; when grief turned into tribute; when a crowd became a choir, united by music’s universal language.
Back to the Beginning may have been conceived as a farewell, but Yungblud’s “Changes” feels like a beginning of its own — a reminder that even in moments of loss, something beautiful can emerge.
Mark your calendars. “Changes” drops this Friday, July 18, on all major streaming platforms.
Don’t miss the chance to be part of this powerful chapter in rock history — and to make a difference with every listen.
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