Black Sabbath co-founders Tony Iommi and Ozzy Osbourne remain on good terms, three years after retiring the iconic heavy metal band.

Iommi tells the Birmingham Mail that despite the ocean, continent and seven-hour time different between the former band mates, they still communicate regularly.

The guitarist says he and Ozzy have been speaking more than ever while they've each been stuck at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic — Iommi in a suburb of Birmingham and Ozzy in Los Angeles.

For Iommi, it's heartening to see how people are helping each other in these difficult times.

"Neighbors have dropped a note through the door asking if I want any shopping," he said. "They're looking out for the poor old sod! I think this has brought us all closer. I'm even in touch with Ozzy every day as he gets over his own health problems in L.A."

Both Rock and Roll Hall of Famers are at heightened risk of the novel coronavirus. Iommi is a cancer survivor. Ozzy was hospitalized with pneumonia over a year ago, is recovering from neck surgery and has been dealing with advancing Parkinson's disease. So neither man has imminent plans to leave their home.

While Ozzy has had his differences with Iommi over the years (he once accused the guitarist of forbidding 'fun' during Sabbath's last go-around), Iommi has remained one of the Prince of Darkness's biggest supporters during the battery of health problems he's experienced over the past 18 months.

Ozzy spoke more fondly of Iommi this past winter, admitting how much his old friend "intimidates the f--k" out of him, but also how much Iommi's perseverance has inspired him during his own health crises.

Photo: Getty Images

iHeartRadio Music News

106.7 The Eagle · Portland's Classic Hits Station