Tony Iommi Gets MBE; Sabbath Final Concert Film Is Hard to Watch

Tony Iommi received a Member of the Order of the British Empire, or MBE, at Windsor Castle on September 30, 2026, for his services to music and charity. He said the honor felt especially meaningful because it came from England, and that Ozzy Osbourne would have been pleased. Iommi also admitted that he finds footage from Black Sabbath's final concert difficult to watch because of his relationship with Osbourne.

A personal honor and an emotional farewell film

The Princess Royal bestowed the honor during the ceremony. Protocol prevents Iommi from disclosing their conversation, and he can now use the letters MBE after his name if he chooses. Iommi was diagnosed with cancer in 2011, and his lymphoma was found to be in remission five years later. He has since supported cancer charities, including through the sale of a guitar earlier in 2026. He said the work helped pay for new machinery and beds for patients. Iommi has watched the upcoming Back to the Beginning concert movie twice and described the experience as emotional. The film was shot during Osbourne's final performance, which took place 17 days before his death in 2025. Iommi believes audiences will like the movie. His solo album From the Dark is scheduled for release on October 23.

Why the MBE matters to guitar players

The MBE gives national recognition to Iommi's contribution to music while acknowledging the charity work he pursued after cancer treatment. For guitar players, it connects his musical legacy with public service and the personal history behind his partnership with Osbourne. Back to the Beginning also documents Osbourne's final performance with Iommi involved, giving players a final filmed record of the two Black Sabbath bandmates performing together.

(Via: Guitar Player)