Billy Idol

A chemistry teacher once wrote a remark in Billy Broad’s school diary: William is idle. In the 1980s “idle” showed himself to be an incredibly hardworking musician, ready to do anything for success. Thus was born Billy Idol – punk star, MTV favorite, author of hits like Rebel Yell and Dancing with Myself.

In 1981, Billy Idol moved to New York City and began a solo career. That’s when the EP Don’t Stop was released. The mini-album contained 4 songs, including one of the hits Dancing With Myself.

Billy Idol’s debut studio album Billy Idol (1982) opened the door for Billy Idol on MTV, and Rebell Yell (1983) solidified the success. The videos for White Wedding, Flesh for Fantasy, and Speed were especially popular in rotation. The last song, by the way, became the main soundtrack for the movie Speed (1994) starring Keanu Reeves.

Rebell Yell, recorded in 3 days, was nominated for a Grammy for Best Male Vocal Rock Performance. Billy Idol’s name has appeared three times on the list of Grammy nominees. In addition to Rebell Yell, the songs To Be a Lover from Whiplash Smile (1986) and Cradle of Love from Charmed Life (1990) received this honor.