Tony Iommi Recalls Collaboration with Eddie Van Halen on Black Sabbath’s “Cross Purposes”
The Co-Writing Process
Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi recently shared his memories of co-writing a song with the late Eddie Van Halen for the band’s 1994 album, “Cross Purposes.” Iommi recalled how it all began during a rehearsal.
“I said, ‘We’re working on this song, and we started playing it. He started playing a solo,” Iommi stated. “We played a couple of old Sabbath songs first, and I said, ‘You’re playing that wrong’ [laughs].”
Van Halen’s Contribution
Despite their initial playful banter, Iommi praised Van Halen’s musical contribution to the track. Van Halen’s solo on “Evil Eye” became a standout moment on the album.
“I picked him up in Birmingham, at the hotel, and then we drove via a music shop, and I said, ‘Do you want to pick a guitar up,’ and we did – one of his Eddie Van Halen ones, they had got one in,” Iommi recounted. “Then we went down to the rehearsal.”
A Longstanding Friendship
The collaboration extended beyond the recording studio, as Iommi and Van Halen maintained a close friendship until the latter’s passing in 2020.
“But anyway, that’s the sort of relationship we had. We stayed friends until he passed away; I spoke to him just before,” Iommi said.
Despite Iommi’s Credit, Warner Bros. Intervenes
Although Iommi co-wrote the song with Van Halen, Warner Bros. Records prevented the latter from receiving a writer’s credit on the album. This move has been met with criticism from fans and fellow musicians alike.
Black Sabbath’s Legacy
Black Sabbath, formed in 1968, is widely recognized as one of the pioneers of heavy metal music. The band has influenced countless musicians and continues to be celebrated for its iconic sound.