STILL THE TRUE REBEL: BILLY IDOL ELECTRIFIES WEMBLEY ARENA!

24 June 2025, OVO Arena Wembley

Review & Photography: Aggie Anthimidou Photography

Billy Idol’s triumphant return to Wembley Arena this week was more than a concert—it was a time-plunge into the gritty, neon-soaked atmosphere of ‘80s New York. Set against a backdrop of urban scene decay and hedonism, the show delivered a fully immersive experience, channeling the raw energy and anarchistic spirit that made Idol an icon.

From the moment Idol hit the stage, he owned it; leather-clad, sneering and absolutely electric. The setlist blended his latest album Dream Into It – a return to Idol’s roots – with beloved classics and a few surprises that kept the crowd fired up.

Backed by an elite band, Idol shared the spotlight with longtime collaborator and guitar legend Steve Stevens. Their bond and chemistry were palpable, forged through decades of performing together, and it added an extra layer of magic to the night. The rhythm section, powered by Stephen McGrath on bass and Erik Eldenius on drums, held the show down with unrelenting energy, while Paul Trudeau’s keys added richness and atmosphere.

Backing vocalists Kitten Kuroi and Jessica Childress didn’t just support; they commanded. Their presence was sensual and powerful, especially when Childress stepped forward for a show-stopping duet on Gimme Shelter, Idol’s fiery Rolling Stones cover.

A highlight came with Flesh for Fantasy, as screens behind Idol flashed iconic images from his music video. He teased the crowd, stripping off his shirt, donning his signature leather jacket.

Steve Stevens lit up the stage with a blazing solo before sliding into the haunting Eyes Without a Face, and Idol emerged in a bright blue leather jacket, this time wearing his own merch T-shirt.

Idol reflected on his journey, paying tribute to his London roots and the dreams that fueled his rise.

“Life’s not always easy,” he told the crowd, “but somehow you’ve got to keep the flame burning. That’s what I did—I dreamt of everything, and that put me here tonight with you.”

New track Dream Into It captured that sentiment perfectly.

© Aggie Anthimidou Photography

He shared a cheeky story about attending a Rolling Stones birthday bash with Mick, Keith, and Ronnie, knocking back some mystery “brown liquid’ (Rebel Yell bourbon) before launching into the riotous Rebel Yell, which ended with Idol tossing his shirt into the crowd.

The encore was worth the wait. Emerging in a dramatic black leather trench coat, he invited Tony James and closed the show with Generation X anthems. Still basking from last year’s Generation Sex huge success the encore was a real momentum.

“Too much heat and humidity… it just made sense to write a song.”

he shares the story of his 1981 New York summer that inspired Hot in the City.

“Let’s show what a hit song sounds like”

he screams before closing with White Wedding.

As the final notes rang out, Idol grinned:

“Thank you for making my life so fuckin’ great.”

And the crowd roared in agreement because Billy Idol isn’t just still here. He’s still the rebel, still the icon and still so damn loud.