Tony Iommi: Black Sabbath Will Tour "As Much As We're Able" in 2013

Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi posted an end-of-year update on his official website.

Iommi, who has been battling cancer since earlier this year, assured fans that the band are hard at work on their new album and that they'll be touring as much as possible in 2013.

Here's the complete message:

"What a year! Certainly not the one I was expecting.

Thanks to you all for your massive help and support, it was very encouraging. I'm still working on the album and managed to play three shows, not bad given the news a year ago. I'm looking forward to next year, seeing what you think of the record and touring as much as we're able.

My Best Wishes to you all, I hope you have a great Christmas and New Year, most of all, stay positive,

- Tony"

Black Sabbath recently revealed that they are six tracks into recording their new album, which should be released in April 2013. Iommi has hinted that the new disc will feature 15 songs.

Thank you for reading 5 articles this month**

Join now for unlimited access

US pricing $3.99 per month or $39.00 per year

UK pricing £2.99 per month or £29.00 per year 

Europe pricing €3.49 per month or €34.00 per year

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Prices from £2.99/$3.99/€3.49

Damian Fanelli
Editor-in-Chief, Guitar World

Damian is Editor-in-Chief of Guitar World magazine. In past lives, he was GW’s managing editor and online managing editor. He's written liner notes for major-label releases, including Stevie Ray Vaughan's 'The Complete Epic Recordings Collection' (Sony Legacy) and has interviewed everyone from Yngwie Malmsteen to Kevin Bacon (with a few memorable Eric Clapton chats thrown into the mix). Damian, a former member of Brooklyn's The Gas House Gorillas, was the sole guitarist in Mister Neutron, a trio that toured the U.S. and released three albums. He now plays in two NYC-area bands.