Billy Idol, hard rock musician, was born William Michael Albert Broad, on November 30th 1955, in Middlesex, England. Idol lived in Worthing, before attending Sussex University. He dropped out of school within a year, and joined joined the Bromley Contingent of keen Sex Pistols fans. It was during this time that he decided to become a musician.

In 1976, Idol formed a punk rock band called Generation X. This band signed with the label Chrysalis Records and released three moderate albums before breaking up.

Idol moved to NYC, and began a solo career with Steve Stevens. Soon, Billy Idol became familiar amongst MTV fans with songs like 'White Wedding' and 'Dancing With Myself'. Idol's second LP, 1984's "Rebel Yell" was a blockbuster success, establishing Idol as a rock star in the US.

Idol waited until 1986 before releasing album "Whiplash Smile", which was again, a huge success. At this juncture, Steve Stevens left to start his own solo career. Idol's cover of Tommy James' 'Mony Mony' did well in the MTV circuit. Idol also played Cousin Kevin in a performance of Tommy.

Right before the release of 1990's "Charmed Life", Idol was involved in a motorcycle accident, which almost cost him a leg. The album itself sold well, but Idol decided to take a break anyways. During this time, Idol acted in the Oliver Stone film The Doors.

1993 saw the release of "Cyberpunk", which failed to sell in the United States. Idol became immersed in a drug addiction, and nearly died of an overdose in the year 1994.

Idol returned in 1998, portraying himself in the Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore romantic comedy The Wedding Singer. 'White Wedding' was also the title track of the film.

"Devil's Playground" is the latest Billy Idol album, released in March of 2005. It is the first new studio album in nearly twelve years.