Drumming News :
Black Sabbath co-founder Bill Ward has revealed he now often uses a wheelchair in public but stressed he is “not in retirement or ill or giving up.”
The 78-year-old drummer shared the update on social media, explaining that while he can still walk, he cannot manage long distances without resting.
“I can still walk, let there be no doubt, but I can’t walk very far without needing to rest.”
Ward said he began using a wheelchair around 18 months ago, mainly in airports and at public events. He emphasized that his love for music and drumming remains as strong as ever.
“I’m still a drummer. I can still play pretty good for 78 years old.”
“My talents and ambitions, and my unyielding need to be artful, and to play drums, is still as strong as it was so many years ago.”
The drummer said he wanted to be open with fans to prevent misunderstandings about his health and mobility.
“If you see me in a wheelchair, I’m just catching a ride. I’m not in retirement or ill or giving up.”
He also encouraged fans to say hello if they see him out in public, adding with humor:
“I don’t bite, I’ll just look different.”
Ward concluded his message with a promise that delighted fans:
“Much love to you all and I’ll keep rocking until I’m dead.”
A founding member of Black Sabbath alongside Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler, Ward reunited with his bandmates for the group’s farewell concert in 2025. His latest update has drawn widespread support from fans, who praised both his honesty and his determination to continue making music.
