Jack Black Leads Jack Sabbath Tribute with Geezer Butler at Festival

Jack Black brought his Black Sabbath tribute project, Jack Sabbath, to life at Tom Morello’s Power to the People Festival this past weekend. The Tenacious D frontman was joined by a band of young musicians—and a legendary surprise guest—for a high-energy set at Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland.

The tribute act, which debuted in 2023, featured Black on vocals alongside a lineup of teenage talent: Roman Morello (son of Tom Morello) on guitar, Revel Ian (son of Scott Ian) on bass, Japanese drummer Yokoya Soma, and keyboardist Hugo Weiss. Together, they delivered a three-song set of Black Sabbath classics, opening with "Mr. Crowley" and "The Wizard" before closing with a show-stopping rendition of "War Pigs."

The performance took an unexpected turn when original Black Sabbath bassist Geezer Butler joined the group onstage for "War Pigs." Butler, who was already part of the festival’s lineup, praised the young musicians afterward, particularly Soma, whom he called "an amazing drummer" on social media. Black, meanwhile, showcased his signature energy, even playing harmonica during "The Wizard"—a skill he reportedly learned just for the occasion.

Who Is Jack Sabbath?

Jack Sabbath isn’t a new project, but it’s one that carries a mix of nostalgia and novelty. The tribute act first formed in 2023 to perform "Mr. Crowley" at the 100th birthday celebration of Mary Morello, Tom Morello’s mother. Since then, the group has made a few high-profile appearances, including a recreation of Ozzy Osbourne’s "Mr. Crowley" music video in 2025 for Osbourne’s Back to the Beginning farewell concert. Black also delivered Osbourne’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction speech in 2024, where he hailed the Black Sabbath frontman as the inventor of heavy metal.

The Power to the People Festival

Tom Morello’s Power to the People Festival is an annual event known for its eclectic lineup and political undertones. This year’s edition featured a mix of established artists and rising talent, with Butler’s appearance adding a touch of metal history to the proceedings. The festival took place at Merriweather Post Pavilion, an open-air amphitheater with a capacity of over 19,000, offering fans a chance to experience live music in a scenic outdoor setting.

Why This Performance Matters

For Black Sabbath fans, the Jack Sabbath set was a rare opportunity to see a beloved band’s music reinterpreted by a mix of generations. Black’s enthusiasm for the project—evident in his harmonica debut and energetic stage presence—highlighted his deep appreciation for the genre. Meanwhile, the inclusion of young musicians like Soma and Roman Morello underscored the festival’s commitment to nurturing new talent.

Butler’s surprise appearance added a layer of authenticity to the tribute, bridging the gap between Black Sabbath’s legacy and its future. His praise for the young performers, particularly Soma, also signaled a passing of the torch, albeit in a playful and celebratory context.

What’s Next for Jack Sabbath?

While there’s no official word on future performances, the project’s past appearances suggest it may resurface for special occasions. Given Black’s packed schedule with Tenacious D and his film career, Jack Sabbath is likely to remain a passion project rather than a full-time endeavor. Still, fans of both Black and Black Sabbath will no doubt keep an eye out for any announcements—especially if Butler or other original members are involved.

For now, the Power to the People Festival performance stands as a memorable moment in live music, blending nostalgia, talent, and a touch of the unexpected.