Why Tony Iommi Wasn’t Really Into The Black Sabbath Reunion

When plans came together for one final Black Sabbath concert, guitarist Tony Iommi wasn’t immediately on board. The idea of a reunion made him pause.

Iommi told The Guardian:

“I’m the one that said, ‘I don’t know if we should do it.’
“Because we did a farewell tour and I didn’t want to get into that thing like all the other bands are doing, saying it’s the last tour and then reappearing again.”

His concern? He didn’t want Sabbath to be seen as another band that cried wolf with their “final” shows.

A Good Cause Changed His Mind

What finally convinced Iommi? The reason behind the event. “I’ve been convinced, because we’re doing it for a reason… No one’s getting paid or anything,” he explained. The concert, titled Back to the Beginning, will raise money for Parkinson’s and children’s charities.

The big event is set for July 5 in Birmingham, England, the band’s hometown. Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward will reunite one last time—joined by big names like Guns N’ Roses, Metallica, Tool, Steven Tyler, Billy Corgan, and Tom Morello.

Will Ozzy Be Ready?

Iommi admits there’s uncertainty about how Ozzy will handle the show. “I think Ozzy might be on some kind of throne,” he said. “But I’m in the dark as much as anybody else.” Ozzy Osbourne has been battling Parkinson’s and recovering from spinal surgeries, so performing won’t be easy.

Geezer Butler’s Pre-Show Nerves

Even seasoned rockers get stage fright. Bassist Geezer Butler shared his worries, saying:

“I’m already having palpitations. In fact, I had a nightmare last night. I dreamed everything went wrong on stage and we all turned to dust.”

Still, he knows how important this show is.

“It’s important that we leave a great impression, since it’s the final time that people will experience us live. So it has to be great on the night.”