Billy Idol goes from religious upbringing to rebellious 80s icon who sought death
Billy Idol’s rise to fame in the 1980s as a punk rock icon with a rebellious spirit and a unique style has left an indelible mark on the music industry for over four decades. Despite being on the brink of turning 70, Billy Idol continues to defy expectations and maintain his rock’n’roll energy, not conforming to the idea of acting his age.
This week marks the release of his ninth studio album, ‘Dream Into It,’ the first full-length album of new music in over ten years. Additionally, Billy is gearing up to kick off a two-leg North American tour followed by a European leg in the coming months, signifying his ongoing dedication to his music and fans. He’s a testament to the fact that age is just a number as he continues to push beyond limits and surprise audiences with his performances.
Celebrating the 40th anniversary of his hit album ‘Rebel Yell’ last year, Billy defied expectations once more by performing the title track atop the Empire State Building with the same punk rock flair that made him an 80s icon. Embracing his rebellious nature, Billy shared a photo with Avril Lavigne, symbolizing ‘two generations of rebellion,’ showcasing his lasting impact on the music scene. His new single ’77’ featuring Lavigne has surged to the top of the charts in multiple countries, proving his enduring popularity and relevance.
Born as William Broad in 1955 in Stanmore, north London, Billy’s journey to fame began with a rebellious streak that diverged from his parents’ expectations. Despite attending church and being involved in traditional activities like Cub Scouts, Billy’s passion for music led him to pursue a career in punk rock, much to his family’s surprise. Leaving behind a philosophy and literature degree at Sussex University to join a punk rock group, Billy went against the grain to follow his passion.
From his days as a guitarist in Chelsea and co-founding Generation X to his solo success in the US with hits like ‘White Wedding’ and ‘Eyes Without a Face,’ Billy transitioned into a megastar with a chart-topping career. However, alongside fame came a period of self-destruction fueled by substance abuse, culminating in a near-death experience from a dangerous heroin overdose.
Reflecting on his tumultuous past, Billy acknowledged the impact of his lifestyle on his personal and professional life, leading him to prioritize his health and well-being. A serious motorcycle accident in 1990 prompted him to reassess his priorities and shift away from the excesses of his earlier years. Today, Billy describes himself as ‘California sober,’ maintaining a balance in his life while still staying true to his rockstar persona.
As he prepares to embark on a new tour and release his latest album, Billy Idol’s journey from punk rocker to enduring music legend serves as a testament to his resilience, talent, and refusal to conform to expectations. With a career spanning over four decades, Billy Idol continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his electrifying performances and rebellious spirit, proving that age is no barrier to rock’n’roll stardom.