In late 2011 heavy metal fans all over the world were absolutely stoked when news of the reunion of Black Sabbath hit the airwaves. All four members would be reuniting to record another studio album of all new material and then embark on a massive world tour. Unfortunately, this was not to be. An album (13) and a tour embarked upon, but one piece of the puzzle was missing: original drummer Bill Ward. What happened? Apparently Ward was not provided with a "signable" contract and his contributions to the band were belittled by singer Ozzy Osbourne. For the longest time Ward was almost completely silent on the issue, but recently he opened up about it on a post from his official website and Facebook page.
Ward has stated that he would like to reunite with the band. He misses playing with them and would like to mend his friendship with Osbourne; especially since Black Sabbath is about to record one final album and do a farewell tour before retiring the band name forever. However, for that to happen Ward has stated that he would have to be presented with a "signable" contract and would have to receive a public apology from Osbourne that was spoken in the singer's own words and not something prepared for him by a publicist or anyone else.
Hopefully Osbourne and Ward can overcome their differences like grown adults. It would be wonderful for the band to truly reunite, make new music, and tour together one final time as the original four piece that came out of Birmingham, England in 1969. These guys are old now and don't have a whole lot of time left on this Earth. I'm pretty sure they realize this, so hopefully they can grow up, bury the hatchet one last time, and make this happen.
Ward's statement can be read in full below:
"I hope you’re well and in good spirits. I have not made any public statements regarding my relationship with Black Sabbath since February 2012. Today, I want to address that relationship in this formal statement. Thank you.
I have neither severed nor discontinued my relationship with Black Sabbath, however, since 2012, the often inaccurate statements about me as a person and as a musician have caused me to be guarded and be especially detached emotionally and spiritually from Ozzy. His rhetoric above all has brought me the most discord. The continuing misguided information about me has established a necessity on my part to confront these issues. And now, with the imminent release of a new Bill Ward Band album, and the flurry of rumors about new Sabbath projects, I feel it appropriate to speak in a truthful and an un-cynical way.
There is always speculation about a true, original Sabbath lineup for the next tour or record. With a sad heart, I have to say I will not participate in any musical undertakings until a righting of the wrongs spoken against me has been achieved. I must admit, I have little to no expectations of this happening, but in the order of first things first, I’m looking for an honest accountability of all of Ozzy’s statements that I felt were untrue. I would want Ozzy to amend his opinions and exaggerations. I would want him to be forthcoming about his unrealistic viewpoints. And because I was chastised publicly, I would want him to amend publicly in his words, and not through an Ozzy representative, the nature of the wrongs. I would not want to continue on with him without this seemingly impassible dilemma being addressed. I don’t think previously strong relationships can remain strong after dispute by just sweeping the offensive stuff under the carpet, or by saying a puny sorry, or “oh, that’s all over now.” It doesn’t work like that for me. Righting of wrong works, and that’s what I want if I’m ever going to be his friend again.
Still undone and faraway is a “signable” contract. I would require a “signable” contract before moving one step toward a pathway that could lead to us all playing together again. I want a contract I can approve. That’s my truth. That’s my stand. I’ve listened to nothing but insults and false remarks, and if as a band or as individuals they wish to continue along the same lines, then any notion of an original Black Sabbath lineup will continue to fade away.
Put simply, it’s up to them. I have dearly missed playing with them and as people, I have been heartbroken over the loss of who I thought we were. And now you know where I stand.
Very soon my band, BWB will release a new album ironically called “Accountable Beasts.” I re- kick-started it in May 2012, and in an off and on journey to record, we have reached our final destination – a good mix, and a well mastered record. At this time we are putting the final touches on the digital booklet.
There are other multiple projects in different stages of progress, and I hope to bring more definitive news about them as things unfold this year. I have been very happy writing new songs, playing drums and working with other musicians. I have been blessed with musical visions and the ability to harness them. I’m moving into the future with an optimistic outlook.
For our many Sabbath fans, I love you all dearly. You are extremely special people. You f–king rock. I have been in deep regret since January 2012 that a true union was denied. I’ve remained faithful to you and honest with myself. Had I not been honest throughout I would have perished long ago. My hand is within yours, and I am encouraged to know you better. Stay safe and stay strong.
Now it is time to meet the circumstances of my statement and attend to what else is ongoing and before me.
Love,
Bill Ward"
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