Tony Iommi revealed that Black Sabbath declined an offer to reunite for a show at the US Power Trip , which brings together rock and metal giants on October 6th, 7th, and 8th of this year. Despite the band's refusal and their absence from the stage due to health issues, Ozzy Osbourne is one of the confirmed acts for the event.
Sirius XM's Trunk Nation program (via Blabbermouth ), Iommi spoke about how concern for the health of the band members was the main reason for declining the invitation.
“It’s difficult, because Ozzy has been going through a lot lately. He’s been in and out of the hospital, and he’s really been struggling and wants to get back on stage. But, in my opinion, it’s very difficult to say yes. I have to think about the people in the band too. I have to think about Ozzy, if he’ll be well enough to do a show and everything else. So, I wasn’t very comfortable with that,” the guitarist said.
Iommi's concern was so great that the matter wasn't even discussed among the band. "I mean, we hadn't approached the others about it. They could have said no. But it didn't really go much beyond me," he explained. "If we're going to accept, I want to put on a good show. I want to go out on top. I don't want to just put something together hastily. And I'm not saying it would have been like that, but it could have been difficult."
Therefore, Tony Iommi was surprised to hear Ozzy Osbourne was announced as one of the headliners for Power Trip . Just a month before the event was announced, the Prince of Darkness had cancelled a US and European tour, stating he was “physically unable” to continue touring , despite denying his retirement .
“I didn’t know Ozzy would do it on his own. But it’s great. I hope he can do it and that it’s really good. He really wants to do it and is trying his hardest to recover. Ozzy has been going through a lot of difficult things lately. It’s a shame, really. But he’s still fighting,” commented Tony Iommi.
In addition to Ozzy Osbourne, the Power Trip also marks the return of AC/DC to the stage after seven years without live performances. The lineup also includes Guns N' Roses , Metallica , Tool , and Iron Maiden ; learn more here .
READ ALSO: Ozzy Osbourne reveals dream supergroup and includes Randy Rhoads on the list.
