Billy Idol, known for his journey from packed punk shows at CBGB to global arena tours, reflects on a life filled with sex, drugs, and rock and roll that was constantly on the edge of danger. In a recent interview with Tom Power from Q, Idol emphasized the destructive nature of such a lifestyle and the difficulties he faced in coming to terms with its consequences. His latest solo album, “Dream Into It,” serves as a musical reflection of his life story, paralleling the creation of his upcoming documentary, “Billy Idol Should Be Dead.”
At 69 years old, Idol contemplates his life’s landscape, shaped by diverse musical influences from his childhood, including Miles Davis, “Camelot the Musical,” and The Kinks. He fondly recalls the emergence of punk rock in the 70s, a movement that resonated with him as a fan of various genres. Half of the tracks on “Dream Into It” delve into Idol’s youth, with songs like “77” featuring Avril Lavigne capturing the essence of punk street life in 1977.
Reflecting on his past hits like “Dancing with Myself” and “Eyes Without a Face,” Idol acknowledges the wild parties and loss of control that came with his success in the 80s. Tracks like “Too Much Fun” and “People I Love” on his new album address the darker aspects of his lifestyle, including drug addiction and neglecting his family. Despite the ups and downs, Idol expresses no regrets, believing that his unconventional decisions ultimately led to the realization of his dreams.
As the lyrics of his iconic song “White Wedding” suggest, Idol sees this phase of his life as a fresh start. He cherishes the perspective his grandchildren bring, embracing their innocence and unconditional love that transcends his past. The full interview with Billy Idol is available on various platforms, offering deeper insights into his remarkable journey.
Produced by Mitch Pollock, the interview with Billy Idol provides a profound glimpse into the life and music of a rock legend.
