Spartanburg, SC (4/29/23) – Billy Idol has been a music icon for over 4 decades now. His career began in 1976 in London/United Kingdom with the band Chelsea. Shortly after transitioning to Generation X and releasing 3 albums the band found success among the punk rock scene. In 1981 he picked up and moved to New York City where he teamed with guitarist Steve Stevens and the rest is history.
There was no mistaking the darkened silhouette of Idol as he took to the stage at Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium. As the lights came up the iconic spiked hair, leather jacket, boots and that infamous sneer were just as recognizable now as during the glory days of his MTV notoriety that shot him to stardom. Chart topping hits and multi platinum albums soon followed.
The nights set list took the sold out crowd on a journey through time spanning his expansive career. Staples like “Rebel Yell,” “Eyes Without a Face,” and his cover of “Mony, Mony” had fans on their feet all night. “Dancing With Myself” and “One Hundred Punks” took it back to the Generation X days.
Added to the mix were songs from Idol’s latest EP’s, “The Roadside” (2021) and “The Cage” 2022”. The songs “Cage” and “Bitter Taste” encapsulate what everyone expects of sound. Modern compositions with a classic touch of the past.
Guitarist Steve Stevens had his moments to shine as well taking center stage many times throughout the night. An extended solo found Stevens in a midst of fog as he showcased his technical abilities amongst the fret board.
Throughout the night Idol would take time to recognize and engage with the crowd as he passed out autographed memorabilia, primarily focusing on the younger kids and teens in attendance. He also took time to speak of stories about drug addiction, his motorcycle accident and his many years in the music industry.
The night would come to an end with an encore of “Hot in the City” and “White Wedding.” For a show that was added last minute with only a weeks notice Spartanburg, SC and Billy Idol showed up and showed out for a great night of rock ‘n’ roll and punk music.
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Copyright Michael Bragg/MJBragg Photography
