Billy Idol concert in Monaco

Few artists embody the raw energy and attitude of the punk and new wave movements quite like Billy Idol.

With his trademark sneer, spiked blonde hair, and leather-clad swagger, Idol became one of the defining figures of 1980s rock, blending punk’s rebellious spirit with the emerging MTV generation of visual storytelling.

Since 2006, the Monte-Carlo Summer Festival has brought together the greatest names in the history of music, which have built the international reputation of Salle des Etoiles.

On 12 July, the rebellious spirit of British punk and rock takes over the stage at the Monaco Red Cross Gala with the iconic Billy Idol.

Practical information:

• Date: 12 July 2025
• Price: Dinner-show – 1.900 euros
• Location: Salle des Etoiles, Sporting Monte-Carlo, 26 Avenue Princesse Grace, 98000 Monaco
• Information and reservations: +377 98 06 36 36 / ticketoffice@sbm.mc

Billy Idol: The Rebel Yell of Rock and Roll

Born William Michael Albert Broad in 1955 in Middlesex, England, Idol first rose to prominence as a member of the punk rock band Generation X in the late 1970s. The group was among the first punk bands to achieve chart success in the UK, but Idol soon set his sights on a solo career. Moving to New York City, he teamed up with guitarist Steve Stevens, whose virtuoso guitar work became a vital part of Idol’s signature sound.

In 1982, Billy Idol released his self-titled solo debut, featuring the hit “White Wedding”. The song, with its dark romanticism and unforgettable riff, became an instant classic and set the stage for Idol’s breakthrough. His follow-up album, Rebel Yell (1983), catapulted him to superstardom. The title track “Rebel Yell”, along with “Eyes Without a Face” and “Flesh for Fantasy”, dominated both radio and MTV, where Idol’s charismatic music videos became iconic. His bad-boy persona resonated with a generation looking for something edgy yet irresistibly catchy.

What made Idol stand out was his ability to blend punk, rock, and pop into a sound that was both rebellious and mainstream-friendly. His gravelly vocals, combined with Steve Stevens’ scorching guitar solos and the era’s synth-driven production, created a formula that was instantly recognizable. He became a symbol of the 1980s: wild, stylish, and unapologetically bold.

The late 1980s and early 1990s saw Idol continue his success with hits like “Mony Mony” (a cover that became a staple party anthem) and “Cradle of Love”. However, like many rock stars, he faced personal struggles, including battles with addiction and a near-fatal motorcycle accident in 1990, which nearly derailed his career.

Despite these challenges, Billy Idol remained resilient. He reinvented himself in the 2000s, releasing Devil’s Playground(2005) and later Kings & Queens of the Underground (2014), reminding fans and critics alike of his enduring talent. Idol also embraced a new generation of fans through appearances in films, TV, and collaborations with modern artists, including EDM producer Miley Cyrus and others.

Today, Billy Idol is celebrated not just as a relic of 80s nostalgia but as a rock icon who has consistently adapted without losing his rebellious edge. His live performances remain electrifying, proving that the Rebel Yell still echoes loud and clear decades later.