Geezer Butler’s brief exit from Black Sabbath was (probably) a ‘Fairies Wear Boots’ moment

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As a die-hard Black Sabbath fan, I’ve always marveled at the band’s tumultuous journey, and Geezer Butler’s unexpected departure in 1977 is one of those moments that adds fuel to the fire. It’s like they were playing a game of musical chairs with chaos as the music!

Was Black Sabbath about to create another rock history stir in 1977? This is when bassist Geezer Butler took a short leave from the band, an experience he later referred to as surprisingly pleasurable. The separation happened during a challenging phase for the band, marked by drug issues and administrative troubles. Bill Ward, the drummer, was the one who made the decision to let him go, citing concerns about Butler’s apparent lack of excitement. However, Geezer Butler himself felt it was a move to shift blame amidst growing tensions within the group.

Black Sabbath, known as pioneers in the heavy metal genre, had already attained immense success with their albums selling millions worldwide. However, despite their achievements, the band members felt disenchanted due to financial difficulties and a growing suspicion that they were being taken advantage of by their management. During this tumultuous period, Tony Iommi (Butler) temporarily departed from the group, but later rejoined, contributing further to the chaotic atmosphere within the band.

Butler shared his dismissal with a blend of relief and amusement. The ensuing weeks were stress-free as he wasn’t required to tour or record anymore, which he referred to as a precious break from routine. However, this tranquility didn’t last long, as Ward called him back for rehearsals. Upon his return, neither the firing nor the reinstatement was mentioned by the rest of the band, leaving Butler puzzled but ready to move forward.

According to Butler’s account: “Approximately two or three weeks after our conversation, Bill phoned me and asked, ‘Where are you?’ I replied, ‘Why do you ask?’ He responded, ‘We’re rehearsing here!’ I was surprised and said, ‘I thought I had been let go… You told me I was fired from the band!’ He casually mentioned, ‘Oh, right – I forgot about that.’ Upon hearing this, I went to the rehearsal, and nobody brought up the matter; we simply continued as usual.

It seems like we’re dealing with a situation reminiscent of “Fairies Wear Boots,” where external factors, possibly some uncertain ones too, may have played a role in the decision-making process. Luckily, since their drug use is widely acknowledged, it appears there’s minimal risk of legal action due to such conjecture…or so it seems!

It changed Geezer Butler’s view on Black Sabbath

The original Black Sabbath lineup consisting of Butler, Osbourne, Ward, and guitarist Tony Iommi held a creative balance marked by both brilliance and personal disputes. Band founder Butler, who also came up with the band’s name, was pivotal in shaping their unique, dark sound. However, an incident left him questioning his fellow band members’ trustworthiness, causing lasting damage to his relationship with them that he later recounted as a defining moment of change within the group.

This episode took place as Black Sabbath was on the verge of major transformations. A few years down the line, Ozzy Osbourne’s dismissal (apparently joined by Bill Ward) and the arrival of Ronnie James Dio signified the close of the band’s initial phase. Despite these hardships, Tony Iommi’s determination and skill allowed him to weather periods of absence and return, ultimately securing his status as one of heavy metal’s most impactful bassists.

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2024-12-01 02:31