Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi receives MBE at Windsor Castle
He's made a Member of the Order of the British Empire
Last updated 30th Sep 2026
Congratulations to Black Sabbath’s Tony Iommi! The metal pioneer was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) at Windsor Castle today.
The 78-year-old guitar titan received his prestigious honour from Anne, Princess Royal at an investiture ceremony.
Tony was recognised in the King’s Birthday Honours for his music and shaping the heavy metal genre as a co-founder of Black Sabbath alongside Ozzy Osbourne, Terence “Geezer” Butler and Bill Ward.
He has also dedicated himself to charity work and is focused on humanitarian projects such as international disaster relief, as well as cancer advocacy, having been diagnosed with lymphoma in 2012.
Tony said: “What an unbelievable honour to receive an MBE!
“Music has been my life and I’ve been very lucky to share this journey with many amazing people and fans, and I’m very grateful for all the support along the way.
“It’s been a privilege doing something I love and then to see that music connect with so many over the years.
“And, to be able to help raise money for charities close to my heart has meant the world to me.”
Tony Iommi releases his first solo album in 21 years, ‘From The Dark’, on Friday 23rd October. It features the huge anthem 'World Alone'.
To coincide with its release, Tony will host Friday Night Rocks on Planet Rock throughout October!
With Blaze Bayley currently traversing the UK on his Iron Maiden Anniversary Tour, Tony Iommi will step in to present Friday Night Rocks every week from 2nd October until 30th October.
Airing from 7pm to 10pm, the shows will feature a selection of incredible weekend-starting rock songs, and there will also be stories from Tony's fabled career compiled from his archive shows and recent interviews.