Happy 76rd Birthday to Black Sabbath Legendary Bassist Geezer Butler: Your Thunderous Rhythms and Dark Poetry Still Shake the World… Read More
Today, July 17, marks the 76th birthday of one of heavy metal’s most influential and beloved figures — Geezer Butler, the legendary bassist and founding member of Black Sabbath. Known for his thunderous bass lines, haunting lyrics, and quiet wisdom, Geezer has long been considered the heartbeat and soul of Black Sabbath’s groundbreaking sound.
From the working-class streets of Aston, Birmingham, to the biggest stages in the world, Terence “Geezer” Butler carved a unique legacy as not just a master of low-end thunder, but as the band’s original lyricist — crafting the dark, dystopian visions that became synonymous with Sabbath’s identity. Songs like War Pigs, Children of the Grave, N.I.B., and Heaven and Hell were born from Geezer’s pen and plucked from the shadows of his imagination.
As fans across the globe celebrate his 76th birthday, messages of love and respect have poured in from rock royalty, fellow musicians, and generations of fans who’ve grown up headbanging to his riffs. Hashtags like #HappyBirthdayGeezer, #MetalGod, and #BassLegend have trended worldwide, reminding everyone just how deep Geezer’s impact runs.
In a personal message posted early this morning, Geezer thanked fans for their ongoing support:
“76 years today… wow. I’m still here, still grateful, and still feeling the love. Thank you all for sticking with me through the decades. Sabbath was just the beginning — the music, the memories, and you lot have been the real gift. Much love. G x”
And as if that wasn’t enough to excite fans, Butler ended his message with a subtle tease:
“More to come… stay tuned.”
The cryptic note comes amid growing speculation of a Black Sabbath farewell tour in 2026, tentatively titled “One Last Ride”. With Ozzy Osbourne recently confirming interest in returning for a final Sabbath send-off, and Tony Iommi revealing ongoing talks behind the scenes, Butler’s birthday message adds even more anticipation to what could be the most historic reunion in heavy metal.
Geezer may be 76, but you wouldn’t know it watching him perform. Whether during the band’s final 2017 show in Birmingham or the surprise jam sessions he’s taken part in since, his stage presence and musicianship remain sharp and electrifying. And even in his quieter years, Butler has continued to influence younger generations — whether through interviews, side projects, or his critically acclaimed 2023 memoir, Into the Void.
Fellow musicians also chimed in on social media.
Metallica’s Lars Ulrich posted:
“Happy birthday to the master of the low end! No Geezer, no metal. Simple as that.”
Rob Halford of Judas Priest shared:
“The blueprint. The soul of Sabbath. Thank you for your music, your words, and your humility. Happy 76th, Geez!”
Though he has always remained more reserved than his bandmates, Butler’s legacy is etched into the DNA of metal itself. Without his vision, Sabbath might not have become the pioneering force that opened the doors for bands like Metallica, Slayer, Pantera, and countless others.
As fans light candles, crank up Master of Reality, and raise their horns in celebration, one thing remains clear — Geezer Butler’s influence is timeless. Whether he returns to the stage or remains a mythic figure in retirement, his presence in the world of rock and metal is undeniable.
So here’s to 76 years of doom-laden basslines, poetic darkness, and humble brilliance.
Happy Birthday, Geezer Butler. Long live the godfather of metal groove.
