Billy Idol admits he thought career “may only last about six months” while accepting ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ at AMAs
Billy Idol was honoured with a ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ at this year’s American Music Awards, but admitted while making his acceptance speech that he thought his career “may only last about six months”.
The rock legend was not only being celebrated with the coveted award, but also took to the stage to perform a selection of his greatest hits, including ‘Eyes Without A Face’ and ‘Dancing With Myself’.
However, when the moment came to accept his award, Idol became deeply reflective about the start of his career, before looking ahead to the next generation of musicians.
Idol began by saying: “When I started out in punk rock back in 1976, we thought it may only last about six months — let alone 50 years.”
Telling the audience that he engaged in music for the “love” and “sense of freedom” it granted him, Idol continued: “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.”
Ultimately, it was clear that the ‘80s legend wanted to use his speech to impart a message down to the younger generation of musicians, many of whom were also being celebrated at the ceremony.
Referring to Leon Thomas, the artist who presented him with the award, Idol appeared impassioned when he said: “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.”
As much as the award at the AMAs was undeniably a career highlight for Idol, he is set to enjoy a year of such honours in 2026, as he will finally be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame this November.
Alongside the likes of Oasis, Phil Collins, and New Order, Idol will receive the prestige that he has long campaigned for in the Rock Hall, previously vying for his place in 2025 by saying, “I’m fucking incredible!”
Never Miss A Beat
The Far Out Music Newsletter
All the latest music news from the independent voice of culture.
Straight to your inbox.