

HOLLYWOOD -- This year marks a remarkable milestone for rock legend Billy Idol. As he prepares for his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and celebrates receiving the American Music Awards Lifetime Achievement Award, Idol has also been honored, along with his longtime guitarist Steve Stevens, as the latest inductees into Guitar Center's Hollywood Rockwalk. Speaking at the Rockwalk induction ceremony, Idol reflected on his career, which began in 1976, marveling at the accolades this year has brought his way. "It's kind of a fantastic thing that a lot of these honors are happening this year," Idol shared with On The Red Carpet. His enduring partnership with Stevens, which spans nearly 45 years, was also highlighted, with Stevens humorously noting their musical collaboration as his longest relationship. The synergy between Idol and Stevens has consistently translated into their music, improving both their songs and performance. "The more you have this kind of symbiotic friendship, you can translate it into the music," Stevens commented. "And it means so much to our audience." Joining the ranks of legendary inductees such as John Lennon, Eric Clapton, and Stevie Wonder, Idol and Stevens have cemented their legacy. Guitar Center's CEO Gabe Dalporto expressed pride in celebrating artists who have indelibly changed the music landscape. Founded before the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Rockwalk aims to honor musicians who have significantly impacted the industry. Billy Idol, born William Broad, made his debut in the late 1970s UK punk scene with the band Generation X. After moving to New York City, he connected with Stevens, and together they soared to commercial success with Idol's self-titled debut album featuring iconic tracks like "White Wedding" and "Dancing With Myself." Their follow-up album, "Rebel Yell," solidified Idol's status as a superstar, thanks in part to the heavy rotation of his music videos on MTV. Beyond music, Idol penned an autobiography "Dancing With Myself" in 2014 and recently released a documentary titled "Billy Idol Should Be Dead," streaming on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+. Radio personality Richard Blade, who first played Idol's music in the 1980s and continues to spotlight him on Sirius/XM's First Wave channel, praises Idol's unwavering authenticity. "He’s never kind of sold out... He's always been Billy," Blade notes. Currently, Idol is working on new music, aiming for a release next year, expressing his ongoing passion and excitement for music creation. "I'm still here doing it. I still enjoy doing it," Idol affirmed, echoing his dedication to pushing musical boundaries. The Walt Disney Company owns Hulu and this ABC station.