Bill Ward, founding member and drummer of Black Sabbath, welcomes you to Home of Metal in this exclusive recording made on 7 June 2011.

Reflecting on his early days in Aston, he describes his musical apprenticeship in detail and with insightful honesty and reflection. Under the influences of jazz and blues sounds, the social and economic realities of the working class culture that surrounded him, and the environment of the streets he played in, Bill and his colleagues in Black Sabbath went on to leave indelible finger prints on the rock world.

It’s a warm message of support for Birmingham, its people and the music they have made.

Thanks Bill.

Home of Metal at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery opens today.