When Billy Idol stormed onto the American music scene in the early 1980s, he not only brought with him a striking image of leather attire and bleached hair but also introduced a new air of punk rock and attitude to the mainstream audience. Over time, his music, including iconic hits like “White Wedding,” “Rebel Yell,” and “Eyes Without a Face,” have become timeless tunes that resonate with both the leather-clad original fans and those who only dreamt of living such a lifestyle.
Now, four decades later, Idol is reflecting on his storied career with greater clarity, culminating in a new documentary, “Billy Idol Should Be Dead,” set to premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival, and the release of his latest album, “Dream Into It,” characterized by a polished punk-pop sound. Idol reveals that the journey towards this new album was a gradual one. “It wasn’t so much that we didn’t want to make an album, it was more like we were building up to doing this,” Idol explained.
In a recent discussion, Idol shared insights into his creative process behind “Dream Into It” and delved into personal history, including past battles with addiction, receiving his first nomination for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and more. The album, which he describes as autobiographical, allows him to look back at his 69 years with fresh perspective, aided by life’s milestones such as becoming a grandparent. “You sort of reach this vantage point where you can really look back and see all the different eras of my life,” said Idol. He aimed to explore deeper lyrical domains than his previous work, suggesting that “Kings & Queens of the Underground” didn’t fully capture the depths he wished for.
The new album features notable collaborations with several influential female artists, including Joan Jett, Avril Lavigne, and Alison Mosshart of The Kills. Idol praised Mosshart’s powerful voice and reminisced about his long-term friendship with Joan Jett. He also expressed admiration for Avril Lavigne’s career progression over the years.
Regarding his documentary, which provocatively titled “Billy Idol Should Be Dead,” Idol reflects on tumultuous times, “There was a point in my life when I was living every day as if it’s your last,” he admitted. Idol attributed some of this to a general mindset prevalent in 1970s England, characterized by a sense of neglect among the youth and a lack of prospects. Parenthood prompted a shift in perspective, encouraging him to confront his issues with drugs.
Reflecting on his life’s darker moments, Idol acknowledges that he has often “flirted with death,” whether through motorcycle escapades or drug-fueled living. “I’ve done it. It’s horrible. You find out how human you are, how vulnerable,” he remarked. Despite the dangers of his past, Idol recognizes the fortune of having escaped graver consequences others faced, such as severe brain damage or untimely deaths.
On being nominated for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame for the first time, Idol notes the influence of legendary artists who laid the groundwork for punk rock. “I think about Bo Diddley and Chuck Berry and Little Richard. … Buddy Holly,” he said, expressing awe at potentially joining a hall that celebrates such greats. Adding humor, he mentioned that his motorcycle has already been featured in the hall for years, so it seems fitting that he gets acknowledged too.