Legendary BLACK SABBATH guitarist Tony Iommi has wrapped up an eventful year by sharing a personal video message reflecting on the many projects that defined his last 12 months. The four-minute clip offered fans a rare, heartfelt look into both the professional milestones and emotional moments that shaped his year.
Now 77, Tony Iommi remains remarkably active despite being diagnosed with early-stage lymphoma nearly 15 years ago. Throughout the message, he highlighted major musical releases, historic honors, charitable efforts, and exciting plans for the future.
A strong start with classic BLACK SABBATH material
According to Tony Iommi, the year began on a positive note with the re-release of material from the Tony Martin era of BLACK SABBATH. The renewed spotlight on Eternal Idol marked an important moment for long-time fans of the band’s lesser-explored chapters.
Shortly afterward, an unexpected collaboration entered the picture. Tony Iommi revealed that Robbie Williams drummer Karl Brazil reached out with a proposal that quickly turned into something special.
Transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
“ Hello, everybody. I hope you had a great Christmas. We have; we had a great time. 2025 for me started off really well. And we had the Tony Martin [-era BLACK SABBATH re-]release of ‘Eternal Idol’ come out.”
While initially intended as an album track, the collaboration evolved into a full single release titled Rocket. Not only did Tony Iommi perform on the track, but he also participated in the accompanying video, making the experience even more memorable.
Transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
“And shortly after that I was asked by [British pop singer] Robbie Williams’s drummer Karl Brazil if I’d play on a track with Robbie, which, of course, I said, ‘Yes, that would be great.’”
Honors, reunions, and a historic hometown celebration
As the year progressed, Tony Iommi also celebrated the launch of his newly redesigned official website. However, one of the most meaningful highlights came when the original members of BLACK SABBATH reunited in Birmingham.
The band received the prestigious Freedom Of The City award, an honor that deeply resonated with Tony Iommi, given the group’s roots in the city.
Transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
“SABBATH got together, the original SABBATH [members], and we were presented with the Freedom Of The City [award] from [our original hometown of] Birmingham, which was absolutely amazing.”
Adding to the celebration, Birmingham embraced what became known as the “Summer Of Sabbath.” Murals, artwork, and tributes appeared across the city, transforming it into a living homage to the band’s legacy.
For Tony Iommi, seeing Ozzy Osbourne, Bill Ward, and Geezer Butler again under such circumstances was especially meaningful.
Transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
“It was really great seeing [fellow original SABBATH members] Ozzy [Osbourne], Bill [Ward] and Geezer [Butler] for Freedom Of The City.”
The emotional weight of “Back To The Beginning”
Soon after, rehearsals began for the monumental Back To The Beginning show at Villa Park in Birmingham. The event brought together numerous bands in tribute to BLACK SABBATH, raising substantial funds for charity in the process.
Although the concert was widely celebrated, it carried a profound emotional weight. Just weeks after the show, Ozzy Osbourne passed away, marking the end of an era.
Transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
“It’s just unfortunate and sad that Ozzy passed away a couple of weeks after that, which, you know, may he rest in peace.”
Gear releases and creative milestones
Despite the loss, Tony Iommi continued to channel his energy into creative and technical projects. On a brighter note, he announced the release of the Laney TI100 limited-edition amplifier, which he personally used during the Back To The Beginning performance.
Additionally, August brought the launch of the Gibson Tony Iommi signature pickup, further cementing his influence on modern guitar design.
Transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
“And on a brighter note, I had the release of the Laney TI100 limited-edition amplifier.”
BLACK SABBATH – The Ballet returns
September marked another standout achievement with the second run of Black Sabbath – The Ballet. The production sold out entirely across England, drawing praise for its bold fusion of heavy metal and classical dance.
Under the direction of Carlos Acosta, the Birmingham Royal Ballet production exceeded expectations. Tony Iommi even joined select performances in London and Birmingham, adding a live musical element to the show.
Transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
“They are so amazing, those dancers and choreographers and all that, and I take my hat off to them.”
Charity, documentaries, and what lies ahead
Toward the end of the year, Tony Iommi focused heavily on charitable efforts. A guitar raffle was organized to support the new cancer unit at Heartlands Hospital, raising an impressive £53,000.
Looking forward, fans can expect a Gibson documentary centered around Tony Iommi, set for release soon. Even more exciting, he confirmed that his long-awaited solo album is scheduled to arrive in 2026.
Transcribed by BLABBERMOUTH.NET:
“And then, of course, in 2026. I shall have definitely, definitely my solo album out.”
With optimism and gratitude, Tony Iommi closed his message by wishing fans a happy new year, while promising to share more updates as the album progresses.
