In a recent video excerpt from Tony Iommi: The Godfather of Heavy Metal, Volume One, guitarists Zakk Wylde and Brian May share their perspectives on Tony Iommi's pivotal role in the evolution of heavy metal music. Wylde recalls being deeply impacted by the sound of Black Sabbath’s debut album, describing it as an intense and transformative experience that led him to admire Iommi’s artistry.
Wylde emphasizes that Tony Iommi created a unique form of musical expression through his distinctive riff writing, suggesting that many musicians owe their careers to his innovations. He highlights Iommi’s originality and the lasting impact of his contributions to guitar playing and heavy metal culture.
Brian May offers insight into the technical qualities that made Iommi's guitar style stand out, noting how he combined low, sustained notes with distinctive chord structures to create what May terms a completely original sound. May refers to Iommi as the "godfather of heavy metal" and discusses how, despite initial resistance, Black Sabbath's music eventually gained widespread recognition for its originality.
Both musicians acknowledge Tony Iommi’s influence across a broad spectrum of heavy music styles, from metal to thrash, underscoring his enduring legacy. Iommi’s work not only shaped an entire genre but also connected generations of fans through a shared musical experience that emerged from Birmingham in the late 1960s.