Bill Ward, the legendary rocker, takes a reflective journey back to an emotional moment – his final conversation with the iconic drummer Cozy Powell. Sharing intimate insights during a recent interview with LA Radio Sessions, the Black Sabbath founding member delves into the depths of their friendship, revealing that this heartfelt exchange happened just two weeks before Powell’s tragic passing in 1998.
The conversation between Ward and Powell, as recalled by the drummer, was laden with significance. “My last phone call with Cozy, actually, was about two weeks before he passed away,” Ward shared. “And I am so glad that I was able to talk to Cozy on really meaningful topics and heartfelt conversation.”
Their connection had faded over time, making the reunion all the more poignant for Ward. “I hadn’t spoken to him for a while, and then, of course, two weeks later, he passed away, which was heartbreaking,” Ward added. Powell, known for his powerful drumming style and collaborations with major rock acts, tragically died on April 5, 1998, following a car crash in England at just 50 years old. His sudden death sent shockwaves through the music world, leaving a void that reverberated among peers and fans alike.
In addition to revisiting the emotional memory, Ward fondly reminisced about Powell’s talent and influence. The drummer’s first encounter with Powell dates back to their youth, marveling at his prowess even then. “Well, Cozy Powell was somebody that I first met when we were still kids. Great drummer. Tight,” Ward recalled. “I was attracted to his personality. He was a nice man – very nice man.”
Ward also praised Powell’s musical style, drawing parallels to legendary jazz influences like Buddy Rich and highlighting how seamlessly it fit into the rock genre. “He had a lot of hit records by himself as a single artist… He was always available, always listening. I think he was a drummer’s drummer,” Ward acknowledged.
Approaching his late 70s, Ward acknowledges that reminiscing about lost friends evokes a range of emotions. “It’s so sad, very sad, now when I’m thinking about it,” he lamented. Despite the melancholy, Ward concluded his tribute with a heartfelt sentiment: “So, yeah, Cozy was an angel. That’s what Cozy Powell was.”
As fans continue to celebrate the legacy of Black Sabbath, a band that played a definitive role in defining heavy metal in the 1970s, Ward’s reflections on Powell serve as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of their music. As one of the group’s founding members, Ward stands as a vital voice in preserving the history of rock through stories like these.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.