Billy Idol (born William Michael Albert Broad, November 30, 1955, in Stanmore, England) is a British-American singer, songwriter, musician, and actor, considered an icon of punk rock and the MTV generation. He began his musical career with the punk band Generation X, but rose to global fame as a solo artist with unforgettable hits like “Rebel Yell”, “White Wedding”, “Eyes Without a Face”, and “Dancing with Myself.”
After nearly a decade-long break, he released his ninth studio album, Dream Into It, in April 2025—his first since 2014. The album was released on Dark Horse Records/BMG and features guest appearances by Avril Lavigne, Joan Jett, and Alison Mosshart, with production by Tommy English. It reached #7 on the U.S. Album Sales chart, #2 in Germany, and #3 in Switzerland—marking the first time Idol has entered the U.S. Top 10 on this particular chart.
In 2025, he is on a major tour titled It’s a Nice Day To… Tour Again!, co-headlining with the legendary Joan Jett & the Blackhearts. The tour is split into two legs: spring (U.S., April–May) and summer (ending in September in Los Angeles). A portion of the ticket proceeds from the L.A. concert will go toward helping California wildfire victims, with Billy personally pledging to match the donation.
In June 2025, the Tribeca Film Festival premiered the documentary Billy Idol Should Be Dead, which delves into his turbulent life story—from struggles with addiction and a serious motorcycle accident to personal revelations, including a DNA test confirming the existence of an illegitimate son. The film offers an intimate look into the artist’s unwavering commitment to music despite the upheavals of his past.
In 2025, Billy Idol received his first-ever nomination for induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, alongside his longtime collaborator, guitarist Steve Stevens—a testament to his enduring relevance and influence in popular music.
