Black Sabbath Talks About The Legacy They’re Going To Leave

As Black Sabbath prepares for what’s being billed as their final performance on July 5 in Birmingham, England, the original lineup—Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward—have shared their personal reflections on how they’d like the band to be remembered.

This concert will mark the first time all four original members have performed together in two decades. Set in their hometown and featuring a lineup of metal legends from various generations, the show promises to be a powerful farewell.

In an interview, three members of the band shared their thoughts on the band’s legacy.

Guitarist Tony Iommi reflected on the journey:

“You can never know how your life turns out. It’s just believing in what you do and following that path. That’s always what I’ve had, and not given up on it.”

When asked how he’d like Black Sabbath to be remembered, he said:

“For what we brought to the table. For bringing this music out and inspiring other bands to build on it.”

Drummer Bill Ward focused on the band’s unapologetic style:

“For showing that it’s okay to push things, to be outlandish and extraordinary and rough around the edges. We were loud and aggressive, and that’s what I love about us.”

Bassist Geezer Butler added:

“As four working-class blokes who defied all the odds, but had an unbreakable belief in ourselves, and bonded with the greatest fans ever.”

Another Album? Mixed Feelings Among Band Members

The idea of recording another Black Sabbath album resurfaced in the conversation, but the members had differing opinions.

Both Iommi and Butler again voiced disappointment with the band’s last studio release, 13, and its producer Rick Rubin. “It would have been great if Bill was on it,” Butler said—a thought Iommi echoed.

Iommi shared that the possibility of a new album has been floated:

“I’ve been approached about doing a Sabbath album. It could be good, but I don’t want to take the time of sitting down and writing stuff like last time and it goes willy-nilly.”

Butler added:

“Do I wish we’d done another album? No, I don’t… but if anyone really wanted to do another, I’d be up for it. But not just for the sake of doing it.”

In contrast, Ward was more enthusiastic:

“I’d love to do another album. I’ll be direct about that.”

Ozzy’s Farewell to Touring, But Not to Music

Although Ozzy Osbourne’s health has forced him to step away from touring—making the July 5 show his final live appearance—he’s not done making music. “As far as recording goes, I still enjoy doing my own work. I also enjoy singing on other people’s work. For the foreseeable future I will keep on recording – if the projects interest me,” Osbourne said.

While this may be the last time Black Sabbath takes the stage together, the door isn’t completely closed on new music—at least not for everyone.