Billy Idol has spent decades proving that rock and roll is more than just a sound—it’s an attitude. From his early days with Generation X to his explosive solo career, Idol has been a defining voice in punk-infused rock. Now, he’s receiving one of the highest honors in the industry: a nomination for the 2025 class of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Understandably, the news is still sinking in for the “Rebel Yell” singer. “It’s a great honor,” Idol told Ultimate Classic Rock after hearing about the nomination. “If I do get to be in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, you really get a chance to thank your fans… That’s what I like about it. You get a chance to really thank everybody who supported you through thick and thin.”
Idol’s impact on rock music is undeniable. As UCR’s Bryan Rolli pointed out, Idol’s ability to blend punk, rock, and pop set the stage for future generations of artists, including bands like Green Day and Blink-182. But for Idol, the idea that he might influence others wasn’t something he ever considered in the beginning.
“It’s one of those things you couldn’t imagine when you started out,” he reflected. “We were really doing it for the love of it and thought, ‘Maybe it’s just going to last a few months, maybe a year or two years.’ And look, it’s 50 years later.”
Idol’s career longevity speaks for itself. Just last year, he delivered a standout performance at the Rock Hall induction ceremony, paying tribute to Ozzy Osbourne with a powerful rendition of “No More Tears.” Now, he’s gearing up for a huge year that includes a major summer tour alongside Joan Jett & the Blackhearts. The It’s a Nice Day to… Tour Again kicks off on April 30 in Phoenix and runs through September 25 in Los Angeles.
As if that weren’t enough, Idol also has a new solo album in the works. Slated to arrive around the start of the tour, the record is described as “a rockin’ guitar record”—a fitting statement from an artist who has never been one to dial things down.
With a Hall of Fame nomination, a packed tour schedule, and new music on the way, Billy Idol proves that rock and roll isn’t just about longevity—it’s about never losing that rebellious spirit.
