Billy Idol Responds to Fans' Questions

Billy Idol, the iconic Generation X punk turned arena rocker, recently engaged with fans' queries, revealing insider stories and reflecting on past events in his career.

Theft of "Rebel Yell" Master Tapes In response to a query about the alleged theft of the "Rebel Yell" master tapes, Idol admitted he took them during a dispute over the album cover with his record label. Concerned about a flaw in the artwork, he used the tapes as leverage, giving them to his heroin dealer and threatening to have them bootlegged if the company didn't alter the cover. The record label conceded to his demands.

Missed Role in "Terminator 2" Idol also addressed a question about missing out on the role of the T-1000 in "Terminator 2: Judgment Day" due to a motorbike accident in 1990. He sustained injuries in his right leg but mentioned that he manages residual discomfort with specific shoe insoles.

Appearance on Marc Bolan’s TV Show Recalling his band's appearance on Marc Bolan's TV show before Bolan's death, Idol underscored the significance of Bolan’s support. Despite equipment delays, Bolan insisted on Generation X performing, providing crucial exposure for the band.

Classmates and Career Boosts Idol reminisced about meeting Siouxsie Sioux and noted the burgeoning punk scene where a few hundred participants rapidly multiplied. He shared a personal anecdote of a narrow escape from violence involving a group of teds.

"Cyberpunk" Album Reflection On his 1993 album "Cyberpunk," which received mixed reviews, Idol discussed his inspiration from contemporary British electronic music. He acknowledged the album’s lack of a hit single but appreciated the modern recording techniques he learned during its production.

Inspiration Behind "Sweet Sixteen" and "Eyes Without a Face" Idol described "Eyes Without a Face" as an attempt to write a non-conventional love song. "Sweet Sixteen," written post-breakup with Perri Lister, was inspired by Edward Leedskalnin, who constructed the Coral Castle for his lost love.

Collaborative Work with Steve Stevens Idol elaborated on his enduring partnership with guitarist Steve Stevens, likening it to the dynamic between Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. He praised Stevens' adaptability and their collaborative synergy.

Dropping Out of Sussex University Answering why he left Sussex University, Idol explained his desire to join the emerging punk scene in London, prompted by a tip from Steve Severin of the Banshees.

Potential Role as Spike in "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" Idol revealed that the character Spike in "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" was based on him, and he was initially approached for the role, which he declined on his manager's advice.

Views on Tony James' Projects Idol expressed admiration for his former bandmate Tony James' ventures with Sigue Sigue Sputnik and the Sisters of Mercy. Vision Thing by the Sisters of Mercy is played before every Billy Idol concert.

Collaborations with Miley Cyrus Lastly, Idol talked about collaborating with Miley Cyrus on the song "Night Crawling," which stemmed from their mutual producer, Andrew Watt. He described the collaboration as enjoyable, emphasizing Cyrus’ lively personality.

Current Enjoyment and Career Longevity Reflecting on his journey, Idol stated that he finds great joy in his current phase but fondly remembers the excitement and dreams fulfilled during his early career.

The deluxe 40th anniversary edition of "Rebel Yell" is now available, and Billy Idol's tour of Canada will commence on July 30 at Rogers Arena, Vancouver.