Tag Archives: Tony Iommi

Black Sabbath Guitarist Tony Iommi Diagnosed With Lymphoma

Tony Iommi

Tony Iommi

Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi has been diagnosed lymphoma, a type of cancer involving cells of the immune system.

A statement released by the band this morning said Iommi’s illness was detected in its early stages and asked their fans to send “positive vibes” in the direction of the man behind the riffs for songs like “Iron Man,” “War Pigs” and “Sweat Leaf.”

“With the news that Black Sabbath’s Tony Iommi has been diagnosed with the early stages of lymphoma, his bandmates would like everyone to send positive vibes to the guitarist at this time,” said the band. “Iommi is currently working with his doctors to establish the best treatment plan — the ‘IRON MAN’ of Rock & Roll remains upbeat and determined to make a full and successful recovery.”

The news of Iommi’s illness is a blow to the band, as they’re in the midst of recording their first studio album in 33 years with the “classic” Black Sabbath lineup of Ozzy Osbourne (vocals), Tony Iommi (guitar), Geezer Butler (bass) and Bill Ward (drums). Set to be produced by Rick Rubin, recording of the album will now be shifted from Los Angeles to the U.K. to facilitate Iommi’s treatment.

Former Black Sabbath singer Ronnie James Dio died in 2010 due to stomach cancer.

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