Tony Iommi Is Finishing His New Solo Album With a Swedish Singer, Says Geezer Butler

As 2026 begins, new details continue to emerge about Tony Iommi’s long awaited return to solo work. This time, the update came directly from his Black Sabbath bandmate Geezer Butler, who revealed that the legendary guitarist is currently finishing a new album featuring a singer from Sweden.

The revelation surfaced during a question and answer session at Steel City Con 2025 in Monroeville, Pennsylvania. Asked whether he might collaborate again with Tony Iommi or Bill Ward in the future, Butler confirmed that Iommi is deep into the final stages of a new solo record.

According to Geezer, the album is already in the mixing phase and is expected to be released sometime in 2026. He also confirmed that Iommi has chosen to work with a single vocalist rather than multiple guest singers, describing the performer only as a “great singer from Sweden.” While no name has been officially revealed, the comment immediately sparked speculation among fans.

Butler also mentioned that Iommi had invited him to record bass on three tracks. The collaboration, however, depends on timing. Geezer explained that Iommi wanted the bass recorded in England, but Butler will not be able to travel there until June 2026. If the schedule allows, the two may reunite in the studio later this year.

Tony Iommi himself has repeatedly confirmed that the album is coming. In a New Year video message shared on his official channels, the Black Sabbath guitarist stated that he will “definitely, definitely” release his new solo album in 2026. He described the process as enjoyable and creatively fulfilling, emphasizing that he is working without pressure or deadlines.

In previous interviews, Iommi explained that the project originally began as an instrumental album. Over time, he decided to experiment with vocals, eventually settling on one singer rather than a rotating cast of guests. This approach marks a shift from his 2000 solo album Iommi, which featured a wide range of vocalists from across the rock and metal spectrum.

Iommi has also spoken openly about the freedom he now enjoys creatively. Following Black Sabbath’s final performance at the “Back To The Beginning” concert in Birmingham in July 2025, the guitarist has embraced a slower, more deliberate pace. He has continued exploring diverse projects, from collaborations with Robbie Williams to the Black Sabbath ballet and limited edition guitar gear releases.

The upcoming album will be Iommi’s third solo release, following Iommi in 2000 and Fused in 2005. While details about the sound and tracklist remain under wraps, Iommi has previously mentioned having hundreds of unused riffs stored on his phone, suggesting no shortage of material.

The news arrives after an emotionally heavy year for the Black Sabbath camp. Just weeks after the band’s final live appearance, Ozzy Osbourne passed away on July 22, 2025. In his recent messages, Iommi has acknowledged the loss while also expressing gratitude for the chance to close that chapter on stage with Geezer Butler and Bill Ward one last time.

With the album nearing completion, a possible Geezer Butler collaboration still on the table, and even a Gibson documentary about his life in the works, Tony Iommi’s 2026 is shaping up to be far from quiet. For a musician whose riffs helped invent heavy metal, the story is clearly not over yet.