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Black Sabbath, who pioneered heavy metal more than five decades ago, announced a final tour and vowed it would be the band's last Image Credit: AFP

After five decades, Black Sabbath will launch a farewell tour next year.

The heavy metal band starring Ozzy Osbourne announced dates for its “The End” tour, which kicks off January 20, 2016, in Omaha, Nebraska.

Osbourne, guitarist Tony Iommi and bassist Geezer Butler will visit 17 North American cities before heading to Australia and New Zealand for seven shows. More concerts will be announced in October 2015.

Original drummer Bill Ward, who had a falling out with Osbourne, is not part of the tour.

The Grammy-winning group released its self-titled debut album in 1970. They are pioneers of heavy metal music.

Black Sabbath said in a statement, “When this tour concludes, it will truly be ‘THE END’, the end of one of the most legendary bands in rock ‘n’ roll history.”