Billy Idol’s iconic guitar riffs and Steve Stevens’ distinctive playing style have been a staple of the band’s sound for decades. However, their journey to stardom was not without its unique twists and turns. The guitarist and songwriter, who have collaborated on numerous occasions, look back on their formative years with nostalgia and pride.
The Early Influences
As a child, Steve Stevens was heavily influenced by a range of artists, from the folk music of James Taylor and Joni Mitchell to the blues of Jorma Kaukonen and Hot Tuna. These early musical experiences laid the foundation for his future as a guitarist and songwriter.
- A classical guitar teacher introduced Stevens to jazz and the works of Steve Hackett, who was known for his classical and psychedelic playing style.
- Stevens’ admiration for progressive rock bands like Yes, Genesis, and King Crimson was fostered by their use of complex arrangements and musical styles.
A Formative Moment
Stevens recalls a particularly memorable concert, one that had a lasting impact on his musical journey: “They were musically adventurous, but you know, with Peter Gabriel in the band, they were visually exciting as well,” he says. “That’s what I always tell musicians, that if you’re going to do something that’s really technical, make sure there’s a strong visual element.”
He names Emerson, Lake and Palmer as an influence, particularly their 1973 tour of Madison Square Garden, where Stevens saw Keith Emerson perform. “He was a rock star, the Jimi Hendrix of keyboards,” Stevens says. “The sound and visuals were great, and they had projections.”
Stevens’ early love for progressive rock was matched by his desire to create music that was both technically complex and visually stunning. This vision would eventually shape his work with Billy Idol.
A Lasting Career
Stevens’ decision to pursue a career as a musician, rather than just a guitarist, proved to be a wise choice. “I wanted to be known as a musician and not just a guitarist,” he explains. “I realized that if I was going to do something with my life, it was going to be a lasting career, not just a short-term thing.”
With Billy Idol, Stevens has achieved a level of success that he never could have imagined. From hits like “Rebel Yell,” “Eyes Without a Face,” and “White Wedding” to their current tour with Joan Jett, Stevens has experienced a level of longevity that is rare in the music industry.
The Current Tour with Billy Idol
Stevens and Idol are set to embark on a new tour this summer, which promises to be one of the band’s biggest productions to date. “This is probably the biggest tour we’ve done since Rebel Yell,” Stevens says. “We’re having a lot of fun bringing a big production to the stage that features technology and nostalgic accents.”
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Projections | Classics videos from the ’80s will be projected onto the stage during specific songs, reminding fans of their iconic era. |
| Visuals | A range of visual effects, including animation, will be used to enhance the performance and connect with song themes. |
| Lighting | A more subdued lighting scheme has been chosen, with no pyrotechnics to focus on the band’s chemistry. |
Collaboration and Creativity
Stevens praises the current crop of musicians on YouTube who offer their own interpretations of his songs. “They mostly get it wrong,” he chuckles, but appreciates their enthusiasm and dedication.
When the tour begins, fans will have the opportunity to see Stevens and Idol bring their performance to life, with a range of special effects and visual elements that will transport them to a bygone era.
“We don’t want pyro, that’s not the type of band we are,” Stevens explains. “But we’re having fun bringing a big production to the stage, with technology and nostalgic accents that highlight our career accomplishments.”
“The best special effect we have is the chemistry between Billy and I,” Stevens says. “We try to be as creative as possible with our visuals and animations to make the show stand out.”
Billy Idol and Steve Stevens: A Musical Journey
“I was fascinated by their complexity and the way they could make this big sound with such simple instruments.”
—Steve Stevens
From punk rock to progressive rock, Stevens’ musical journey has taken him to some of the most iconic artists and bands of the past century. His love for the genre, combined with his technical skill and creative vision, has made him one of the most respected guitarists in the business.
As a key player in Billy Idol’s sound and a partner in his enduring career, Stevens has become an integral part of rock music’s history. His path, influenced by an array of musical luminaries, serves as a testament to the enduring power of music and creativity.
This summer, Stevens and Idol will embark on a new tour, bringing a unique blend of nostalgia, technology, and raw talent to the stage.
