With Tony Iommi battling lymphoma and Bill Ward in a contract dispute with the band, Black Sabbath will now only play one gig on their previously scheduled European tour.

Other than the U.K.'s Download Festival on June 10, the rest of the shows will be billed as 'Ozzy & Friends,' in which singer Ozzy Osbourne will perform his hits and a set of Sabbath classics with the band's bassist Geezer Butler and Ozzy's former guitarist Zakk Wylde. In addition, ex-Guns N' Roses guitarist Slash will also join Ozzy for select dates.

Here is the full statement from Sabbath's publicist explaining the news:

Black Sabbath -- who late last year confirmed the recording of their first new album in more than 33 years and a worldwide headlining tour- -- have had to put some plans on hold due to Tony Iommi’s battle with lymphoma. At this time, Black Sabbath will perform only one show of this summer’s previously scheduled European tour.  It will take place Sunday, June 10 at the U.K.’s Download Festival.

So as not to let the promoters and fans down, Ozzy Osbourne will now perform the majority of the previously scheduled Black Sabbath dates (both festival performances and the headlining shows) billed as Ozzy & Friends. These “first ever” Ozzy & Friends shows will feature appearances by “special guest” musicians including Geezer Butler (who will join Ozzy for a special Black Sabbath set as a show of respect and support to their friend, Tony Iommi) and longtime former Ozzy band member Zakk Wylde.  In addition, Ozzy will be accompanied by longtime collaborator and friend Slash at select shows, with other “special guests” set to join the tour at various stops along the way (full list of dates, appearances below).

Tony Iommi continues to make excellent progress and is looking forward to getting back out on the road.  Meanwhile, Black Sabbath continue to write and record music in the U.K. for their upcoming album.  More information about these dates and Black Sabbath’s recording and touring plans is forthcoming.

2012 Tour Dates:
Black Sabbath

6/10 - Donnington, UK - Download Festival

Ozzy & Friends

5/23 - Helsinki, Finland - Hartwall Arena
5/25 - Stockholm, Sweden - Stadium
5/27 - Jelling, Denmark - Jelling Festival
5/29 - Bergen, Norway - Bergen Calling Festival
5/31 - Oslo, Norway - Spektrum
6/2 - Malmo, Sweden - Malmo Stadium
6/4 - Dortmund, Germany - Westfalenhalle
6/6 - Prague, Czech Rep - O2 Arena
6/15 - Vitoria, Spain - Azkena Rock Festival
6/17 - Clisson, France - Hellfest
6/22 - Dessel, Belgium - Graspop Metal Meeting
6/24 - Milan, Italy - Gods of Metal Festival
6/26 - Vienna, Austria - Stadthalle
6/28 - Belgrade, Serbia - USCE Park
7/1 - Athens, Greece - Rockwave Festival – Terra

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