William Michael Albert Broad, known professionally as Billy Idol, was born on 30 November 1955 in England. Drawn to music from an early age, Idol distinguished himself from many of his British punk rock contemporaries by citing classic rock bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones as key influences. This blend of punk attitude and melodic sensibility would later define his unique musical style.
Idol first rose to prominence during the UK punk rock era as the frontman of the band Generation X. Active in the late 1970s and early 1980s, the group stood out for merging punk energy with more mainstream appeal, helping to usher in a new wave of punk-inspired rock music. Idol's charismatic stage presence and image quickly attracted industry attention.
After Generation X disbanded, Idol launched a solo career that would bring him international fame. His self-titled debut album in 1982 marked the beginning of a successful shift to a more polished, mainstream rock sound. Idol became a defining figure in what became known as the “Second British Invasion” of the United States—a wave of British artists who gained widespread exposure in America during the early years of MTV.
Idol became one of MTV’s earliest and most enduring stars, thanks to a series of visually striking and memorable music videos. Songs like “Dancing with Myself,” “White Wedding,” “Rebel Yell,” and “Eyes Without a Face” became staples of 1980s rock, earning Idol significant radio play and a devoted global fan base. His combination of gothic punk aesthetics, rebellious persona, and catchy songwriting resonated with audiences throughout the decade.
Guitarist Steve Stevens has been a longtime collaborator and key contributor to Idol’s sound. Renowned for his virtuosic guitar work, Stevens helped shape the sonic identity of Idol’s most successful records. The two continue to tour together, delivering high-energy performances that celebrate both new material and Idol's classic hits.
| Description: | Album by Billy Idol |
| Net Worth 2021: | 60 million |
