Despite the announcement that the newly-reunited Refused and At The Drive-In were confirmed for this year’s lineup, Coachella’s lineup lacks straight-ahead metal acts like they’ve had in years past. But according to Billboard, the music and arts festival originally had none other than the godfathers of metal set to headline.
Apparently, Black Sabbath was originally set to be one of the headliners of this year’s Coachella festival (which for the first time will be held on two consecutive weekends in April). However, the band was forced to pull out following yesterday’s announcement that guitarist Tony Iommi was diagnosed with lymphoma. As Billboard notes, it’s unclear which of this year’s three headliners (Radiohead, The Black Keys, and Dr. Dre/ Snoop Dogg).
If Black Sabbath was indeed supposed to headline Coachella, then it would’ve been the original lineup’s first performance since announcing their reunion and plans to record a new album. Prior to Iommi’s diagnosis being made public, Sabbath had only revealed details for a European tour, with their first date set to be on May 18 in Moscow, Russia. While the only statement made by the band said the four were still at work on a new album, it’s unclear if any of the previously announced dates will be at risk.
However, no one from the Sabbath camp has yet to confirm these reports about Coachella. At the same time, it’s understandable if the band would have to cancel numerous plans in order for Iommi to get needed treatment. We just hope that Iommi gets better and kicks lymphoma’s ass.
