After removing himself from the music business "to regenerate, get free of myself and make an album for the right reasons," Billy Idol has chosen 2005 to release his first album of new material in over 10 years. Idol is fit and working with his long-term guitar partner Steve Stevens. The first single "Scream" has already headed out to radio and debuts on digital download tomorrow. The track features Stevens' inimitable guitar and Idol's legendary howl in the style of the classic "Rebel Yell."
Billy Idol first entered music history as part of the Bromley Contingent, the group of Sex Pistols hangers-on that also included Siouxsie Sioux of Siouxsie and the Banshees and Mick Jones, later of the Clash. He later recorded as lead vocalist of the punk band Generation X. Billy Idol became a star as a solo performer utilizing his striking looks in MTV-ready videos of the early 80's. Among his classic hits are "White Wedding," "Dancing With Myself," "Cradle Of Love," and the definitive remake of Tommy James' "Mony Mony."
The new album Devil's Playground, recorded with longtime producer Keith Forsey, is due in stores March 22nd. Idol and his band played a number of shows last year including a particularly memorable concert at New York's Hammerstein Ballroom. A formal world tour is planned following release of the new album.
Billy Idol official site.
Article comments
1 - Jim Carruthers
Somehow, this news should qualify as inner child abuse.