Billy Idol is the debut studio album by the English rock singer Billy Idol, released on 2 July 1982 by Chrysalis Records. It was the first album by Idol since the break-up of punk rock band Gen X, and his first time collaborating with guitarist Steve Stevens. The album's success was helped by music videos of "Hot in the City" and "White Wedding" being in heavy rotation on MTV. Despite this, some criticized Idol for "selling out", even falsely claiming he was influenced by label executives and managers.
Background and recording The song "White Wedding (Part 1)" is so-named due to the less-heard "White Wedding (Part 2)", which is a more synthesiser-based continuation of the first part. It can be heard on the 12-inch version of the single and the compilation Vital Idol (1985).
"Hot in the City" was originally recorded for Idol's debut EP Don't Stop, but his label Chrysalis considered it too good just to release as part of the EP. They felt it could be a single and decided to keep it for the album.Idol 2014, p. 146.
Release and critical reception
Upon its release, the album received generally positive reviews from music critics and was a commercial success, peaking at number forty-five on the Billboard 200. Billy Idol was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Three singles were released from the album: "Dancing with Myself" was already released in 1981 as Idol's debut single. The lead single, "Hot in the City", peaked at number 23 on the Billboard 100. "White Wedding" was released as the album's second single. After it peaked at number 3 on Mainstream Rock chart in 1983, the album was reissued with an addition of the earlier single "Dancing with Myself".
The album was described by observers as a fusion of hard rock, new wave and pop music.
Track listing
"Dancing with Myself" recorded September 1980, AIR Studios, London.
Personnel Musicians Billy Idol – vocals, guitar (except track 3) Steve Stevens – guitars, keyboards, synthesizer, bass (track 6)Idol 2014, p. 168. Phil Feit – bass (tracks 1–2, 4–5, 7–10) Steve Missal – drums (tracks 1, 4–5, 7–10)
Additional musicians Stephanie Spruill – backing vocalsIdol 2014, p. 145. Keith Forsey – drums (tracks 2, 3 and 6)Idol 2014, pp. 164-168. Ashley Otten – guitar (track 3) Mick Smiley – bass (track 3) Steve New − guitar (track 11)Idol 2014, p. 125. Steve Jones − guitar (track 11) Tony James – bass (track 11) Terry Chimes – drums (track 11)
Technical Keith Forsey – producer Brian Reeves – engineer Nigel Walker – engineer (track 11) Steve Bates – assistant engineer Brian Gardner – mastering Jules Bates – photography Perri Lister – make-up Janet Levinson – design Steve Stevens – arrangements Billy Idol – arrangements
Charts
Weekly charts + Weekly chart performance for Billy Idol Chart (1982–1983) Peakposition Australian Albums (Kent Music Report) 66 US Rock Albums (Billboard) 15
Year-end charts + 1983 year-end chart performance for Billy Idol Chart (1983) Position Canada Top Albums/CDs (RPM) 31 New Zealand Albums (RMNZ) 21
+ 1984 year-end chart performance for Billy Idol Chart (1984) Position New Zealand Albums (RMNZ) 23
Certifications
References
Bibliography
External links [ Billy Idol] at AllMusic