Black Sabbath guitar legend Tony Iommi has been diagnosed with the early stages of lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphocytes, a type of cell that forms part of the immune system.
While Iommi is currently working with his doctors to establish the best treatment plan, he remains upbeat and determined to make a full and successful recovery.
The news comes as Sabbath are writing and recording their first album in 33 years in Los Angeles (still set for release this fall) with producer Rick Rubin. The band will now move the sessions to the UK to continue to work with Tony.
The message on Iommi’s website is that Tony’s bandmates “would like everyone to send positive vibes to the guitarist at this time.”
Further information will be released by Tony and the band as it becomes available.
Sabbath’s 2012 World Tour is scheduled to kick off May 18 in Moscow.
Last year, Iommi released his autobiography, “Iron Man: My Journey Through Heaven And Hell With Black Sabbath,” which chronicles the legendary tales of the pioneering metal band.
Iommi's Sabbath and Heaven & Hell bandmate Ronnie James Dio died of stomach cancer on May 16, 2010 at the age of 67.
Black Sabbath Black Sabbath – Iron Man (1970)
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