Billy Idol, the legendary rocker known for iconic tracks such as “Rebel Yell” and “Dancing with Myself,” was recently honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 American Music Awards, held in Las Vegas on May 25. The ceremony, hosted by Queen Latifah, celebrated the impactful contributions of many artists, but Idol’s accolade particularly highlighted his significant influence on the rock music scene over the decades.
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Idol, now 70, took a moment during a candid interview with PEOPLE to reflect on his evolving approach to live performances. He explained that while he once indulged in substances before stepping onto the stage, his current mindset prioritises clarity and sobriety. “I don’t go on stage high or anything like that,” Idol remarked, illustrating a stark contrast to his past experiences. He acknowledged that earlier in his career, he sometimes entered performances under the influence – a habit that included downing cocktails midway through a show.
These days, Idol claims that his focus has shifted entirely. “Nowadays… I go on completely normal and completely straight, and I think that’s the way to do it because the music itself is a high,” he stated. This transformation stems from personal reflections on his past, particularly following a near-fatal motorcycle accident in 1990 that forced him to reconsider his lifestyle.
In that interview, he described how the accident was a turning point, prompting him to reassess his relationship with drugs and alcohol. “I really started to think I should try and go forward and not be a drug addict anymore,” Idol shared. Although he acknowledged that his history with addiction still lingers in some ways, he expressed gratitude for his progress, stating, “I was really lucky that I could get over it because a lot of people can’t.”
Idol’s commitment to sobriety is also bolstered by his social circle, which primarily consists of individuals who are similarly committed to a clean lifestyle. “I can have a glass of wine every now and again,” he mentioned casually, reinforcing that he no longer identifies with his former self consumed by substance abuse.
The Lifetime Achievement Award presented to Idol has come at a significant milestone in his career, as he reflected on his humble beginnings in the 1970s punk scene. Emphasising the unexpected longevity of his career, Idol stated, “When I started out in punk rock, back in 1976, we thought it may only last about six months, let alone 50 years.” This sentiment served to remind the audience of his passion for music, which he described as a source of freedom and expression.
Idol’s journey from the punk rock movement to global superstardom is a testament to his talent and determination. With a career that launched with the band Generation X, he eventually ventured into a successful solo career, giving rise to numerous chart-topping hits. His acceptance speech resonated with fans as he expressed pride in having followed his heart, believing that dedicating himself fully to his artistic pursuits would be rewarding in return.
“The belief we had in our music and ourselves drove us forward,” Idol remarked, highlighting the ethos that has guided him throughout his life. The understanding that music was not just a career but a calling fortified his resolve and contributed to his achievements.
As Idol looks ahead, his journey continues to inspire both fans and upcoming artists alike. With his recent award celebrating a lifetime of dedication to music, Billy Idol stands as a poignant fixture in rock history, embodying how passion and perseverance can lead to enduring success.