Billy Idol brought the look and sound of punk rock to the masses. A seminal figure of the London scene, Idol became a household name in America in the 1980s through heavy radio airplay and continuous rotation on MTV. Idol’s signature sound – rock & roll with a crooner’s soul – created some of the most enduring hits of the 1980s and beyond. His distinctive vocals, charisma, and iconic look – platinum hair, black leather, and signature sneer – made him the perfect artist for the video age.

Born William Broad in Middlesex, London, Idol’s moniker was inspired by a teacher who called him “idle.” He first gained notoriety as part of the Bromley Contingent, a group from the burgeoning punk scene who attended Sex Pistols gigs together. In 1976, Idol taught himself guitar, and with bassist Tony James, he formed Generation X, a seminal punk band with retro pop and rock & roll influences. With singles like “Ready Steady Go,” Generation X combined punk’s hard edge and raucous energy with danceable beats.

After the disbandment of Generation X, Idol moved to New York City to embark on a solo career. His debut solo LP, 1982’s Billy Idol, included the hits “White Wedding” and “Hot in the City,” marking the beginning of his long collaboration with songwriter and guitarist Steve Stevens. The fledgling MTV helped turn Idol and Stevens into bona fide rock stars. The smash success of his 1983 LP Rebel Yell cemented that status with hits including the title track, “Eyes Without a Face,” and “Flesh for Fantasy.”

Idol is a survivor, adapting to the times and never diluting his bold persona. He followed his platinum 1990 album Charmed Life with more experimental work like the concept album Cyberpunk and acting roles in films like 1991’s The Doors. Collaborations with Miley Cyrus in 2020 and with Joan Jett, Alison Mosshart, and Avril Lavigne on 2025’s Dream Into It – his first studio release in ten years – signify his continuing legacy and influence. Further recent work, including a 2025 U.S. tour and the career-spanning 2026 documentary Billy Idol Should Be Dead, affirm the timeless appeal of Billy Idol.

Nominees: Billy Idol, Steve Stevens