Osbourne: Lawsuit is the only way

Ozzy Osbourne is suing ex-band mate Tony Iommi for Black Sabbath royalties.

According to Reuters, the Prince of Darkness has filed a lawsuit in a New York federal court accusing Iommi of falsely claiming individual ownership of the band's name. Osbourne is also suing for the illegal used of the band's trademark and a percentage of profits earned by Iommi while on tour under the name, Black Sabbath, in previous years.

Iommi has not responded to e-mails, phone calls or given a public statement on the situation, reports the Associated Press. However, the famous guitar shredder did say in an earlier lawsuit that he has been the only constant member in the 40 years of the band's existence.

According to Entertainment Weekly, the once front man of Sabbath is looking for 50 percent of profits earned by Iommi during the time he toured without Osbourne in the '90s.

Trademark infringement is a common suit amongst ex-bandmates, due to a band's logo, merchandise and art work.