The original lineup of BLACK SABBATH — who late last year confirmed the recording of their first new album in more than 33 years and a worldwide headlining tour — have had to put some plans on hold due to guitarist Tony Iommi's battle with lymphoma. At this time, BLACK SABBATH will perform only one show of this summer's previously scheduled European tour. It will take place Sunday, June 10 at the UK's 'Download' festival.
So as not to let the promoters and fans down, SABBATH singer Ozzy Osbourne will now perform the majority of the previously scheduled BLACK SABBATH dates (both festival performances and the headlining shows) billed as 'OZZY & Friends'. These "first-ever" 'OZZY & Friends' shows will feature appearances by "special guest" musicians, including Geezer Butler (who will join Ozzy for a special BLACK SABBATH set as a show of respect and support to their friend, Tony Iommi) and longtime former Ozzy bandmember Zakk Wylde. In addition, Ozzy will be accompanied by longtime collaborator and friend Slash at select shows, with other "special guests" set to join the tour at various stops along the way (full list of dates, appearances below).
Tony Iommi continues to make excellent progress and is looking forward to getting back out on the road. Meanwhile, BLACK SABBATH continues to write and record music in the UK for its upcoming album. More information about these dates and BLACK SABBATH's recording and touring plans is forthcoming.
The 2012 tour dates are as follows:
BLACK SABBATH date:
June
10 - Donnington, UK @ Download Festival
'OZZY & Friends' dates are:
May
23 - Helsinki, Finland - Hartwall Arena
25 - Stockholm, Sweden - Stadium
27 - Jelling, Denmark - Jelling Festival
29 - Bergen, Norway - Bergen Calling Festival
31 - Oslo, Norway - Spektrum
June
02 - Malmo, Sweden - Malmo Stadium
04 - Dortmund, Germany - Westfalenhalle
06 - Prague, Czech Republic - O2 Arena
15 - Vitoria, Spain - Azkena Rock Festival
17 - Clisson, France - Hellfest
22 - Dessel, Belgium - Graspop Metal Meeting
24 - Milan, Italy - Gods of Metal Festival
26 - Vienna, Austria - Stadthalle
28 - Belgrade, Serbia - USCE Park
July
01 - Athens, Greece - Rockwave Festival – TerraVibe Park
Source: www.BlabberMouth.Net