Black Sabbath drummer Bill Ward is thanking fans for their support as he tries to secure a “fair agreement” with management so that he can feel good about participating in the legendary band’s reunion album and tour.
"I just wanted to humbly thank you all,” posted Ward on his website. “Your support from across the world has given me further strength and hope for a positive resolve. I have been moved and overwhelmed by the thousands of messages. I love you all."
This past week, Ward went public with a message advising fans that he will not participate in the band’s reunion unless he is presented with an agreement that reflects his contributions to the group’s success and longevity.
Read Bill’s statement here.
In response to Ward’s chess move, his fellow original Sabbath members – Tony Iommi, Ozzy Osbourne and Geezer Butler – issued a statement of their own.
"We were saddened to hear yesterday via Facebook that Bill declined publicly to participate in our current Black Sabbath plans,” said the trio. “We have no choice but to continue recording without him although our door is always open... We are still in the U.K. with Tony. Writing and recording the new album and on a roll... See you at Download!!!"
Sabbath are currently working with producer Rick Rubin on a new album, and have a world tour scheduled to start May 18 in Moscow.
Black Sabbath Black Sabbath – full set
Olympia Theater – Paris, FR – December 20, 1970
See also:
Black Sabbath reunion will continue without Bill Ward
Drummer Bill Ward threatens to quit Black Sabbath