Black Sabbath’s Bill Ward May Quit Band Reunion

As Noisecreep previously reported, Black Sabbath are reuniting for a whirlwind tour and brand new album. However, recent developments may completely derail the project. The band's original drummer Bill Ward has apparently been given an "unsignable" contract. The metal legend has since written to fans on his blog of why he is unable to adequately contribute to the new Sabbath project, much to his own chagrin:

"At this time, I would love nothing more than to be able to proceed with the Black Sabbath album and tour. However, I am unable to continue unless a 'signable' contract is drawn up; a contract that reflects some dignity and respect toward me as an original member of the band. Last year, I worked diligently in good faith with Tony, Ozzy and Geezer. And on 11/11/11, again in good faith, I participated in the L.A. press conference. Several days ago, after nearly a year of trying to negotiate, another 'unsignable' contract was handed to me."

Despite the legal politics involved, Ward wants nothing more than to be a part of the continuation of Black Sabbath. Since news of Tony Iommi's cancer diagnosis, Sabbath headquarters have moved back to England. Ward's bags have been packed and he's ready to move, but negotiations aren't getting anywhere.

"Since the news of Tony's illness, and the understanding that the band would move production to the U.K., I've spent everyday getting to or living in a place of readiness to leave. That involves something of a task, and as I've tried to find out what's going on with the U.K. sessions, I've realized that I've been getting 'the cold shoulder' (and, I might add, not for the first time). Feeling somewhat ostracized, my guess is as of today, I will know nothing of what's happening unless I sign 'the unsignable contract.'"

Ward insists his current decision is not fueled by greed, but by respect for hard rock and respect for his family. Head over to the drummer's blog to read the full statement. Could this be the end of the Black Sabbath reunion already?