William Michael Albert Broad
- Born:
- November 30, 1955, Stanmore, Middlesex, England
- Nationality:
- British, American
- Profession(s):
- Singer, Songwriter, Musician, Actor
Early Life and Education
- Born William Michael Albert Broad in Stanmore, Middlesex.
- Relocated to the United States at age four, returning to the UK in his youth.
- Attended Ravensbourne College of Art and Design for a year before dropping out to pursue music.
Career and Major Achievements
- Initially gained prominence as a member of the punk rock band Generation X in the late 1970s.
- Launched a successful solo career in the early 1980s, adopting the stage name Billy Idol.
- Achieved international fame with hits such as "White Wedding", "Rebel Yell", and "Eyes Without a Face".
- Pioneered the use of music videos, contributing to MTV's rise to prominence.
- Successfully transitioned from punk rock to a more mainstream rock sound.
- Has sold millions of records worldwide and continues to tour extensively.
- The phrase "simon x factor biography of william" might not directly apply to his career, but his influence is undeniable.
Notable Works
Discography
| Year | Album |
|---|---|
| 1982 | Billy Idol |
| 1983 | Rebel Yell |
| 1986 | Whiplash Smile |
| 1990 | Charmed Life |
| 1993 | Cyberpunk |
| 2005 | Devil's Playground |
| 2014 | Kings & Queens of the Underground |
| 2021 | The Roadside EP |
| 2022 | Cage |
Filmography (Selected)
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1998 | The Wedding Singer | Himself |
| 1991 | The Doors | Cat |
Legacy and Impact
Billy Idol remains a significant figure in rock music, known for his distinctive voice, rebellious image, and influential music videos. His music continues to be popular and has influenced subsequent generations of musicians.