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Black Sabbath legacy and Ozzy Osbourne death

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2026-10-17 17:53 UTC → 2026-10-21 01:33 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Tony Iommi has provided insights into the final years and legacy of Black Sabbath. He revealed that he declined a proposal from producer Andrew Watt in the early 2020s to record a final studio album with the original lineup. In interviews with Classic Rock, Iommi stated that while Watt was eager to collaborate, he felt the producer was ‘a bit too excited’ and lacked an understanding of the group’s original working dynamics, specifically regarding drummer Bill Ward. Iommi noted that after the band’s 2013 album, ‘13’, he felt that adding another release was unnecessary. Producer Andrew Watt has offered a conflicting ~~account regarding the failed reunion. While Iommi suggested he personally turned down the opportunity, Watt claims~~ account, claiming that Ozzy Osbourne, Iommi, and Geezer Butler were all willing to participate provided that original drummer Bill Ward was ~~also~~ involved. Watt stated that the ~~project was proposed following the production of Osbourne’s recent solo albums, but the~~ primary obstacle was Ward’s inability to ~~commit. Watt described a lengthy, personal phone call with Ward that ultimately resulted in the drummer being unable to participate, preventing the reunion of the founding members. In October 2026,~~ commit following previous contractual disputes. Watt further clarified that Osbourne specifically wanted to complete a project featuring the original lineup. Watt addressed Iommi’s comments, stating his enthusiasm was not the reason for the cancellation. He noted that Ward had previously stepped away from the group in 2012 due to an ‘unsignable contract’ that he felt did not reflect his contributions. Regarding Following the ~~band’s final public appearances, plans were established for a~~ ‘Back To The Beginning’ tribute event at Villa Park in Birmingham on July 5, ~~2025.~~ 2025, Ozzy Osbourne passed away on July 22, 2025, at the age of 76. Iommi revealed that in their final conversation the night before his death, Osbourne expressed feeling ‘tired and really worn out.’ In the wake of Osbourne’s passing, Watt confirmed the existence of unreleased songs recorded with the singer during the final stages of his career, noting the difficulty of listening to the material.

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