Breaking News: Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi…read more
Tony Iommi, the iconic guitarist and co-founder of Black Sabbath, revealed the three songs he believes best define the band’s legacy and lasting influence on heavy metal. With a career spanning more than five decades, Black Sabbath is widely regarded as the progenitor of heavy metal, and Iommi’s selections offer a glimpse into the essence of their groundbreaking sound and evolution.
“Black Sabbath”
The title track of their 1970 debut album, “Black Sabbath,” is often credited as the song that birthed the heavy metal genre. Featuring one of the most chilling riffs ever composed, the track’s ominous tone, haunting lyrics, and slow tempo were unlike anything listeners had encountered before. The use of the tritone, also known as “the devil’s interval,” added to the eerie atmosphere, setting the stage for the band’s dark and heavy style.
“‘Black Sabbath’ was a statement piece,” Iommi explained. “It embodied everything we stood for—heavy, dark, and unapologetically different.” The song’s influence can be felt in countless bands and genres that followed, firmly establishing Black Sabbath as pioneers of heavy metal.
“Iron Man”
From their second album, Paranoid (1970), “Iron Man” remains one of the band’s most iconic tracks. Anchored by one of Iommi’s most recognizable riffs, the song tells the story of a man who witnesses the apocalypse and is turned to iron, only to seek vengeance on humanity. Its blend of storytelling and unforgettable instrumentation has made it a heavy metal anthem.
“The riff for ‘Iron Man’ is something people instantly associate with Black Sabbath,” Iommi shared. “It’s heavy, memorable, and represents our knack for combining power with emotion in our music.” This track has become a cornerstone of their discography and a staple in their live performances.
“Heaven and Hell”
Representing a different era of Black Sabbath’s career, “Heaven and Hell” comes from their 1980 album of the same name, featuring Ronnie James Dio as lead vocalist. This track marked a new chapter for the band following Ozzy Osbourne’s departure and showcased their ability to evolve without losing their core identity.
“‘Heaven and Hell’ brought a different energy to the band,” Iommi explained. “Dio’s powerful voice and lyrical depth added a new dimension, while we retained the heaviness and mystique we were known for.” The song has since become a symbol of Black Sabbath’s resilience and versatility.
A Legacy of Innovation and Influence
Iommi’s choices highlight key moments in Black Sabbath’s journey, from their debut’s groundbreaking darkness to the experimentation and reinvention of the Dio era. These tracks represent the band’s enduring impact on music and their role as pioneers of heavy metal.
“Each song tells a story,” Iommi reflected. “They show our progression as a band and how we’ve left our mark on music history.”
Even decades later, Black Sabbath’s music continues to resonate, inspiring generations of musicians and solidifying their status as legends.
