• Faith: Christian
• Career: Musician
• Birthday:  November 30, 1955

Billy Idol is a British-American rock musician, singer, songwriter, and actor. He is best known for his work in the punk rock and new wave music genres during the late 1970s and 1980s. Idol's distinctive style, characterized by his sneering smile, spiky blond hair, and rebellious attitude, made him an iconic figure in the world of rock music.

Billy Idol was born William Michael Albert Broad on November 30, 1955, in Stanmore, Middlesex, England. The son of a sales manager, his family moved frequently during his childhood, spending time in various parts of England and the United States before eventually settling in Bromley, a suburb of London. Idol's constant relocation made it challenging for him to establish lasting friendships, contributing to a sense of restlessness and a desire to stand out.

Idol's early fascination with music began in his teenage years, influenced by the burgeoning rock scene in London. He attended Sussex University to study English, but his passion for music soon outweighed his academic pursuits. He dropped out after his first year, opting to immerse himself in the punk rock movement that was taking root in the mid-1970s.,/p>

Billy Idol's music career began in earnest when he joined the punk rock band Chelsea in 1976. However, his tenure with the band was short-lived, and he soon left to form Generation X with bassist Tony James. As the frontman of Generation X, Idol's charismatic presence and distinctive style quickly garnered attention. The band released several albums, including their self-titled debut in 1978, which featured hits like "Ready Steady Go" and "Your Generation."

Generation X was one of the first punk bands to appear on the BBC’s "Top of the Pops," and their blend of punk rock with a pop sensibility helped pave the way for the mainstream acceptance of punk music. Despite their initial success, internal tensions and changing musical tastes led to the band’s dissolution in 1981.

After the breakup of Generation X, Billy Idol moved to New York City to pursue a solo career. This move proved to be pivotal. Teaming up with guitarist Steve Stevens, Idol crafted a sound that blended punk’s raw energy with the emerging new wave and synth-pop trends.

His self-titled debut album, released in 1982, included hits like "White Wedding" and "Hot in the City," which established him as a solo artist. However, it was his 1983 album, "Rebel Yell," that catapulted him to international stardom. The title track, along with "Eyes Without a Face" and "Flesh for Fantasy," became defining songs of the 1980s.

Idol's music videos, heavily played on MTV, were integral to his success. His bleach-blond hair, leather outfits, and sneering visage made him an instantly recognizable figure. The 1986 album "Whiplash Smile" continued his streak of hits with songs like "To Be a Lover" and "Sweet Sixteen."

Billy Idol's personal life has been as tumultuous as his music career. Throughout the 1980s, he embraced the rock 'n' roll lifestyle with fervor, indulging in heavy drug and alcohol use. This lifestyle led to numerous controversies and near-death experiences, including a serious motorcycle accident in 1990 that left him with severe injuries.

Despite these challenges, Idol remained resilient. He continued to produce music, though his output in the 1990s was less frequent and less commercially successful compared to his peak years. His 1993 album "Cyberpunk," an ambitious project inspired by the cyberpunk science fiction genre, received mixed reviews and marked a departure from his earlier sound.

Billy Idol's Religious Beliefs

In recent years, Billy Idol has spoken more openly about his Christian faith and the role it plays in his life. This spiritual journey began in earnest after the death of his mother in 2010. Her passing prompted Idol to reflect on his life, his choices, and his beliefs. He turned to Christianity for solace and guidance, finding a new sense of purpose and direction.

Idol's faith has not always been a prominent aspect of his public persona, but it has influenced his personal life and his approach to music. He has described his faith as a stabilizing force, helping him to overcome his addictions and to navigate the complexities of fame and personal loss.