Iron Man: My Journey through Heaven and Hell with Black Sabbath

Anthony Frank “Tony” Iommi was born 19 February 1948 and is an English songwriter, producer, left handed lead guitarist and founding member of the pioneering heavy metal band Black Sabbath.

As left handed guitarists go, Tony Iommi is unique in more ways than one! Without him and Black Sabbath there may not have been heavy metal! Also, while working in a factory as a teenager, he lost the tips of the middle and ring fingers of his right hand in an accident; an event which crucially affected his playing style – how many guitarists play with plastic fingertips? Only the one and only, Tony Iommi!

Tony Iommi’s Iron Man: My Journey through Heaven and Hell with Black Sabbath is a riveting autobiography that takes readers deep into the life of one of heavy metal’s most iconic figures. As the legendary guitarist and founding member of Black Sabbath, Iommi’s story is not just about the birth and evolution of a genre, but also about personal struggles, triumphs, and the indomitable spirit of a musician who shaped the sound of a generation.

The Good:

Authentic Voice: Iommi’s narrative is candid and unpretentious, reflecting his straightforward personality. The book is written in a conversational tone that makes you feel as if you’re sitting across from him, hearing these stories firsthand. His humor and wit are also evident throughout, adding a layer of warmth to even the most challenging tales.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights: Fans of Black Sabbath will particularly appreciate the in-depth look at the band’s early days, their rise to fame, and the internal dynamics that both fueled and strained their relationships. Iommi offers a no-holds-barred account of the highs and lows of life in a rock band, from the creative processes behind their groundbreaking albums to the wild escapades on tour.
Personal Struggles and Triumphs: Beyond the music, Iommi’s personal journey is compelling. His accounts of overcoming the injury that almost ended his career before it began, his battles with addiction, and his perseverance through health challenges offer an inspiring narrative of resilience. The book doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of his life, making his successes all the more meaningful.
A True Heavy Metal Legacy: The book serves as a testament to Iommi’s role in the creation of heavy metal. His reflections on the genre’s evolution, as well as his contributions to its signature sound, provide valuable insights for both longtime fans and newcomers. The title, Iron Man, aptly reflects his enduring influence on the world of music.

The Not-So-Good:

Linear Narrative: While the chronological approach gives a clear progression of Iommi’s life and career, it sometimes feels a bit too structured. The book could have benefited from a more thematic organization, which might have allowed for deeper exploration of certain topics.
Limited Depth on Some Relationships: Although Iommi discusses his bandmates, some readers might feel that certain relationships—especially with Ozzy Osbourne—are not explored as deeply as they could have been. There are mentions of conflicts and reconciliations, but some aspects are touched upon lightly, leaving the reader wanting more.

Final Thoughts:

Iron Man: My Journey through Heaven and Hell with Black Sabbath is a must-read for any fan of heavy metal or Black Sabbath. Tony Iommi’s life story is as powerful and enduring as the riffs he created, and this autobiography offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a man who changed the face of music forever. Despite a few areas where more depth would have been welcome, the book stands as a compelling and inspiring chronicle of Iommi’s journey through both the music industry and his personal trials. It’s a story of grit, determination, and the unyielding power of music—a true heavy metal memoir.

Check out an interesting article on Tony writing a piece of choral music, check it out here on the BBC.

On February 4, 2017 Black Sabbath played their last ever gig (allegedly!) at the NEC Arena in their home city of Birmingham, UK. The two-hour gig saw the rock legends play 15 songs ending with, Paranoid. Check out what the BBC had to say about The End.

Check out Tony Iommi on Amazon

Check out Black Sabbath on Amazon