BREAKING: Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi Ca…read more.
June 25, 2025 — Black Sabbath icon Tony Iommi has described late Motorhead frontman Lemmy Kilmister as the ultimate symbol of rock and roll. In a recent interview with BBC Midlands Today, Iommi praised his friend’s unmatched dedication to the rock lifestyle.
“Lemmy truly represented everything rock and roll stands for — from the music to the wild living. He embraced it all,” Iommi said during the conversation, highlighting Lemmy’s unapologetic and authentic approach to life on and off the stage.
Iommi reminisced about Lemmy’s infamous habits while touring, joking about his lack of interest in food compared to his constant intake of Jack Daniel’s, vodka, and beer. “He was on two bottles of Jack Daniel’s and two of vodka a day, plus beer — that was his fuel,” Iommi recalled.
Their friendship spanned decades, first beginning in the early ’70s during Lemmy’s time with Hawkwind. The two remained close, often crossing paths as Motorhead supported Black Sabbath across different lineups through the years.
Facing his own health struggles, Iommi expressed deep admiration for Lemmy’s strength and determination. “Even when Lemmy was unwell, he insisted on performing. He didn’t cancel until he absolutely had to. That’s true commitment,” he said.
Lemmy died in December 2015, just days after learning of his illness, but his impact continues to resonate throughout the music world. Iommi’s heartfelt tribute not only honors his friend but also cements Lemmy’s status as a rock legend.
“Lemmy wasn’t just in rock and roll — he was rock and roll,” Iommi concluded, a statement that perfectly captures the enduring legacy of one of music’s most iconic figures.
