Black Sabbath’s Bill Ward Preps Solo Album with Guests
Black Sabbath drummer Bill Ward has announced that he is nearly finished with his first solo album in 11 years. The 78-year-old musician told Metal Express Radio that he is preparing to master the 18-track collection. It will serve as the follow-up to his 2015 release, Accountable Beasts.
Ward characterized the upcoming material as “outside the box,” noting a departure from traditional genre labels. “I’ve gone into orchestrations, choirs, rhythm groups, different vocal groups,” he explained. “And there’s a lot of jazz on the album, as well as just straightforward rock or – I wouldn’t say the word ‘metal’, but I don’t know if I metallised it. But you can hear where I come from.”
A Collaborative Effort
The project is set to feature a significant number of contributors. Ward revealed that he has tapped “at least 15 to 20” guest performers. Among the ensemble are at least 10 different bass players. Ward is already working with roughly 10 regular guitarists. He described his creative process as highly collaborative. He plans to shop the completed record to labels later this year.
“I’ve always written when I was in Black Sabbath. I would interact with the other members of the band as a co-writer. But also when I came home from writing with them, I would just continue to write,” Ward said. “I love being in the studio and writing with other musicians and writing – period.”
Continued Creative Output
The announcement follows a period of reflection for the legendary drummer. In July 2025, Ward performed with Black Sabbath at their final show, Back To The Beginning, held at Villa Park stadium in Aston. The event marked the band’s first performance with Ward since 2005. It served as the final stage appearance for singer Ozzy Osbourne before his death later that month.
Despite challenges with his mobility, which he noted earlier this year requires him to use a wheelchair, Ward emphasized that he remains a dedicated drummer. He continues to focus on his craft. He is tracking keyboard parts and lyrics at home. “I just can’t stop writing,” he added.
Related reading: Tony Iommi Keeps the Black Sabbath Flame Burning on New Project From The Dark, Jack Black’s Black Sabbath Tribute Band Joined by Geezer Butler for ‘War Pigs’, Watch Trailer for Black Sabbath’s ‘Back To The Beginning’ Concert Film
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