Bill posted another update today over on his site regarding his contract situation with Black Sabbath. I’ll get right to the point – here’s what he had to say.
In case the server is down when you go to look at it, here’s the text. I particularly like the bit where he calls out the fans for insulting Oz, Tony, & Geezer as well as the representatives. People need to calm down.
Subject: A Message From Bill
Dear Sabbath Fans,
I wanted to let you know where things are at, from my point of view, as of today, February 17, 2012.
As my statement of February 2, 2012 indicated, I have not declined to participate in the Sabbath album and tour. At the earliest opportunity, I am prepared to go to the U.K. and record, and later tour with the band.
Last week, we sent further communication to the attorney handling the negotiations to try to reach an agreement. At this time we are waiting to hear back. I remain hopeful for a “signable” contract and a positive outcome.
I want to thank everyone who has voiced and posted their opinions, thoughts, support and love through all media, including the newly constructed sites. I applaud your worldwide reaction in support of the original band. And speaking for myself, your intent and truth will always be respected.
While believing in your freedom for expression, keep in mind that Tony, Ozzy and Geezer are still my lifetime friends, and I cannot support comments with an objectifying or derogatory theme toward them or their various representatives.
Many thanks to all of you. You are truly phenomenal.
Stay safe, stay strong.
–Bill Ward
This sounds like a great news. Hope they can be together again and help Tony beat the cancer.
Good to hear this. Hopefully they can work something out so we can have some new Sabbath music later this year!
Bill, you’re one of the best drummers in the metalbusiness and part of a legend. How many bands can claim that they created a whole new genre???
Great to hear from Bill,I with him so many people jump to conclusions & blame people they don’t like for whatever reasons.Life is short shit happens,but now all four Sabs are talking & will work this out to put this once in a lifetime project back on track.In the end they all will be friends till the end because thats what real friends do.
thanks
I wonder if Bill’s refusal to go to London with the rest of the band has anything to do with his fear of flying? Everything seemed fine with his contract when they were in LA; why isn’t it “signable” anymore now that they moved the operation to UK? All this just seem s like a waste of time. Shouldn’t we be all focusing on Tony’s health. To all the people who says “no Bill Ward = no Sabbath” I say “no Tony Iommi = literally no Sabbath!!!”
Good news Bill, the whole world include Peru is awaiting fotr the new album and worldwide tour.
Black Sabbath is the heavy metal’s genesis, the only and the unique!
Go Sabbath
Go straight head Bill, Tony, Geezer and Ozzy.
Ok the tour dates will be replaced by a Ozzy + friends tour.. so if i have a ticket that says black sabbath and its only ozzy osbourne there..does that mean that Ozzy is Black Sabbath now?
Ok, Bill. We´ll let them roast you this time.
Hope it works out Bill, you’re a stronger and wiser man than I am. The fact that you are so eager and dedicated, despite this…well, I don’t how to put it “nicely”…THING; it’s just amazing. This had better pan out, because YOU deserve it, not us (fandom) but YOU! At this point I just want the album & tour for you (and the guys)-for Sabbath, for maybe closure, the whole “come full circle” thing. Even if Sabbath doesn’t tour; just for you guys to be in the same studio/room jamming, writing, laughing (and of course making a kick A$$ record!). We ALL respect you, it’s time for the “powers that be” to open up their eyes & do right by you!
God Bless you Bill & God bless Black Sabbath! M
Long awaited good news Joe for sure, now we just gotta hope His Contract will be considered.
Black Sabbath means nothing without one of its original members. I am terribly frustrated to know the return of the group without its legendary drummer. All my support, my respect and admiration for you Bill.
Long Life to Black Sabbath!
Their was never any doubt in my mind that the issues were between the fellas,with that being said hopefully all the attorneys involved will make everything fair so they can put out the new studio album,ready for some new sabbath material.
Way to put it, Bill. You remian a class act. I look forward to seeing you (all) on tour!
Mr. Bill Ward,
You are truly a gentleman, and your genuine honesty is a breathe of fresh aire. And, I do agree that any such derogatory comments regarding Ozzy, Tony, and Geezer and co. is completely uncalled for and a bit of jumping the gun, so to speak.
There wouldn’t be much of a Black Sabbath reunion without YOU, and quite frankly there will not be much of a reunion without TONY. Naturally, I, we are still praying hellaciously for Tony’s treatment and recovery. so let us all just focus on the here and now, and let life unfold. And pray for a better end.
Peace,
Frank
LONG LIVE BLACK SABBATH
And Bill Ward is STILL the classiest man in metal.
Bill, you and the boys have blessed us with so much already. All the classic albums, and easily one of the best live albums ever with Reunion. Please, don’t feel rushed on our account. We’ve waited these long years, we can wait a few more till everyone’s healthy and happy.
I agree completely.
I hope that they can come to an agreement. I would love to see the original guys together for a full album.
These guys created a style of music that changed the world. I don’t know if this is intended to be the final album for the band but, if it is, I hope it is one that the original line-up can find a way to share together.
Peace to Bill and one of the greatest bands in the world.
MD
Black Sabbath needs to be the 4 original guys.##
We need an album to revive the special mix orginal studio recordings from 69-74