Black Sabbath legend Bill Ward says he’s still writing music and lyrics and is preparing to release a new solo album featuring an impressive lineup of guest musicians.
In a recent interview, Ward said he plans to finish mastering the upcoming record and hopes to release it in the coming months. And judging by what he has revealed so far, fans can expect something a little different from the sound that made him famous with Black Sabbath.
Bill Ward Says He Simply Can’t Stop Writing Music
Ward has spent much of his life writing music, whether alongside his Black Sabbath bandmates or independently.
He added that he has maintained the habit since childhood, constantly developing musical ideas, writing lyrics, playing keyboards, and recording arrangements at home.
For Ward, songwriting isn’t something he has to force. It’s simply part of who he is.
He also enjoys collaborating with other musicians, taking his initial ideas into the studio and working with different players to bring each composition to life.
Upcoming Solo Album Features Up to 20 Guest Musicians
The drummer revealed that between 15 and 20 musicians will contribute to his upcoming solo album, either as guest performers or collaborators.
Rather than relying on the same musicians for every track, Ward carefully chooses players based on what each song needs. He regularly works with different guitarists and bassists, allowing them to contribute their own ideas and interpretations.
His songwriting process usually begins with keyboards and drums. He then adds rough vocals and bass parts to establish the song’s overall structure before bringing other musicians into the mix.
The album will also feature orchestral arrangements, choirs, different vocal groups and plenty of jazz influences.
He described the upcoming LP as an 18-track collection that moves beyond the familiar musical imagery associated with Black Sabbath.
Dave Lombardo Among the Musicians Contributing to Ward’s New Music
One particularly exciting collaboration involves Slayer drummer Dave Lombardo. Ward revealed that Lombardo plays on a track inspired by his childhood memories of Aston, Birmingham.
The track will retain a metal influence, and Ward brought in Lombardo because he believed his longtime friend could deliver certain drum parts better than he could.
Ward said he plays drums on approximately 80% of the recordings he is currently making, but he genuinely enjoys stepping aside and allowing other musicians to contribute.
