Billy Idol’s Still Dancing – A Rock Legend’s Evolution
A year ago, I volunteered for the Big Brothers Big Sisters charity event at the MGM Music Hall in Boston, where the entertainment lineup was as unexpected as it was intriguing—Flo Rida and Billy Idol. Rap and punk rock rarely share a stage, so this was an interesting mix. Then I thought, Billy Idol? I hadn’t thought about him since the ’90s and wasn’t sure if he was still alive. But not only is he alive—he’s thriving.
I grew up in the ’80s and was 12 when MTV first aired. Billy Idol exploded onto the scene in 1982, instantly recognizable with his spiky blonde hair, black leather, and signature snarl. His high-energy anthems—White Wedding, Rebel Yell, and Dancing with Myself—defined the decade.
Fast forward to 2024, and I wasn’t sure what to expect from a 68-year-old rock star who had famously weathered years of excess. To my surprise, Billy Idol has aged well—still fit, still rocking. As he took the stage, his voice was just as powerful as ever, bringing his classic hits to life.
Still Dancing, Still Rocking
Billy Idol’s new single, Still Dancing, the first release from his upcoming album Dream Into It, drops on April 25. The track serves as a sequel to Dancing with Myself, reflecting the journey of a man who has seen it all and still stands strong.
When I first listened to Still Dancing, I didn’t immediately connect it to Dancing with Myself—but then the lyrics hit, and it all made sense. Dancing with Myself takes us “on the floors of Tokyo” or “down in London town,” capturing the beginning of his career. In Still Dancing, he shifts the message, singing, “I’m still dancing, but now I’m in control. I got everything I need next to me—from L.A. to Tokyo.” The song exudes classic Idol energy, with an infectious beat that makes you want to move. It could easily become a summer anthem.
Admittedly, the song feels too long with one too many guitar solos. My music tastes have evolved from heavy metal to R&B, and Still Dancing didn’t grab me immediately—the lyrics felt repetitive, and at times, the guitar overpowered Idol’s legendary voice.
Billy Idol: Then and Now
After the show, I went down an internet rabbit hole, catching up on what Billy Idol been up to since his wild ’80s days. Post-fame, he cleaned up his act, became a father, and eventually, a grandfather. He’s a vegetarian, does Pilates, and, judging by his Instagram, enjoys spending time with his grandchildren. It’s fascinating to see how rock stars evolve—not just musically but personally.
The Road Ahead
Billy Idol is hitting the road with a new tour, and he’s also been nominated for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Whether Still Dancing becomes a radio hit or a deep-cut favorite, one thing’s for sure—Billy Idol isn’t done yet. He’s still dancing.
Catch Billy Idol live this summer—tickets available now!