Billy Idol was honored with a lifetime achievement award at the 2026 American Music Awards on Monday night. The “White Wedding” singer and bona fide ‘80s rock icon, who was spotted in the audience by host Queen Latifah early in the show, gave an empowering acceptance speech and soon mesmerized the crowd with a medley of “Eyes Without a Face” and “Dancing With Myself.” He was accompanied by his longtime songwriting collaborator and guitarist Steve Stevens, who’s been by his side since the ‘80s.

“When I started out in punk rock back in 1976, we thought it may only last about six months — let alone 50 years,” Idol told the audience. “We were doing it for the love. We were doing it for the love and because music was the only thing that gave us a sort of feeling of freedom, a sense of freedom. We believed in what we were doing and we thought maybe if we just dreamed into this life and gave it everything we had, it would give it all back to us in spades. And that’s exactly what happened.

“So to any kid out there who loves rock ‘n roll, or any music of any kind, as much as Leon [Thomas] and I do, if you’re inspired to create that sense of freedom and pursue a life of art, all I can say is, pick an instrument, find out who you are and be it. Thank you for rock ‘n roll. Thank you to everyone.”

After a stint fronting the ‘70s post-punk band Generation X, the Middlesex, England-born Idol snarled his way into fans’ hearts beginning in 1982 with his self-titled debut, which produced the single “White Wedding (Pt. 1).” His sophomore album, Rebel Yell, arrived in 1983 and was quickly certified double platinum largely in part to songs like “Eyes Without a Face,” “Flesh For Fantasy” and the title track. Following the mainstream success of Rebel Yell, he evolved into a global star and would go on to release nine more albums, including his latest, 2025’s Dream Into It.

Idol will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in November alongside Joy Division/New Order, Phil Collins, Iron Maiden, Wu-Tang Clan, Oasis, Sade and Luther Vandross.

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