Billy Idol

The Profile

British singer and songwriter who emerged from the punk scene with Generation X and became a solo star in the 1980s, known for hits like Rebel Yell and Eyes Without a Face and for his long-running partnership with guitarist Steve Stevens.

Fronted Generation X before launching a solo career; global breakthrough with Rebel Yell (1983); frequent collaborator Steve Stevens on guitar; motorcycle accident in 1990 preceded a return with Charmed Life (1990) and later Devil’s Playground (2005).

The reviews frame Billy Idol as a punk-rooted, chart-savvy icon with an 80s peak (Rebel Yell) and a divisive but visionary Cyberpunk. Devil’s Playground marks a muscular 2005 return with Steve Stevens and Keith Forsey. A 2005 live set impressed skeptics. Overall tone: appreciative, with some sharp elbows.