Billy Idol was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 American Music Awards on Monday night. The “White Wedding” singer and ’80s rock icon, who was spotted by host Queen Latifah in the audience early in the show, gave an empowering acceptance speech and quickly wowed the crowd with a medley of “Eyes Without a Face” and “Dancing with Myself.” He was accompanied by his old songwriting collaborator and guitarist Steve Stevens, who has been by his side since the 1980s.
“When I started my punk rock career in 1976, we thought it might only last about six months — let alone 50 years,” Idol told the audience. “We were doing it for love. We were doing it for love and because music was the only thing that gave us some kind of feeling of freedom, a feeling of freedom. We believed in what we were doing and we thought that maybe if we dreamed about this life and gave it our all, it would give us everything back in spades. And that’s exactly what happened.”
“So, to any kid who loves rock and roll, or any music of any kind, like Leon [Thomas] As I do, if you are inspired to create that feeling of freedom and pursue an artistic life, all I can say is, pick an instrument, find out who you are and be it. Thank you for rock and roll. Thanks everyone.”
After a stint fronting 1970s post-punk band Generation His second album, Rebellious screamarrived in 1983 and quickly went double platinum largely in part for songs like “EyesWithout a Face,” “Flesh For Fantasy,” and the title track. After the mainstream success of Rebellious screamHe developed into a global star and would go on to release nine more albums, including his final album from 2025. Dream about it.
Idol will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in November alongside Joy Division/New Order, Phil Collins, Iron Maiden, Wu-Tang Clan, Oasis, Sade and Luther Vandross.
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