The documentary Billy Idol: State Line features the punk icon's April performance at the Hoover Dam, the first concert ever filmed at the historic landmark.
The official website for Billy Idol: State Line reads, “In this exclusive and dynamic documentary film presented for theatrical release by Unbranded Events, Billy Idol performs two unique sets of his iconic hits on site at the Hoover Dam, which straddles the Colorado River directly on the Nevada/Arizona state line. A full band concert at sunset with special guests that electrified and illuminated the surrounding Black Canyon and an acoustic duo set on the roof of the powerhouse directly at the foot of the Hoover Dam. Idol was joined by his collaborator and lead guitarist of over 40 years, Steve Stevens. The film includes Idol’s iconic hits such as ‘Dancing with Myself,' ‘Eyes Without a Face,’ ‘Rebel Yell,’ and ‘White Wedding.' Also joining Idol on stage stage at various points are special guests Alison Mosshart (The Kills, The Dead Weather), Steve Jones, and Tony Kanal (No Doubt).”
Billy Idol Is an Original Punk Rocker Who Broke Out on Mainstream Radio and MTV
Billy Idol was in London during the early days of the punk scene in the 1970s. He became the lead singer of the punk group Generation X before heading out on his own as a solo artist. Videos for songs such as “White Wedding” and “Dancing with Myself” made him a breakout star in the early days of MTV. More stadium-ready hits such as “Rebel Yell,” “Flesh for Fantasy,” “Mony Mony,” “To Be a Lover,” “Cradle of Love,” and his cover of the Doors' “L.A. Woman” followed in subsequent years. In 2021, Idol released “Bitter Taste” — one of his best and most haunting songs ever — from the EP The Roadside.
Earlier this year, Idol received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. At the ceremony, Idol said:
“Some way or other, by hook or by crook, I finagled my way into this position where I’m still going strong and enjoying it. We just started playing because we loved it. Maybe it would last six months or a couple, three years. And now it’s almost 50 years later. The music we’ve been putting out lately has been fantastic. Steve Stevens just keeps getting better and better. I’m grateful. Who could’ve imagined?”
Billy Idol: State Line opens in select theaters for a limited time on November 15.