The global lockdown of 2020 gave Billy time to reflect. While writing the new music that would become his latest release, The Roadside EP, Idol’s thoughts turned to his near-fatal motorcycle accident of 1990, how he dealt with it and how it related to the current crisis. “It seemed quite logical and natural to write something about my motorcycle accident,” he says. “I may have been saying, well, this is what people go through when they are in trouble. I think I was unconsciously making that connection.
“Certainly, the motorcycle accident was the catharsis, the wake-up moment. Maybe I left behind the irreverent, youthful Billy and opened the door for a more attentive father and more sensitive musician. Something did get left by the roadside, but it was not necessarily a bad thing in the end.”
Billy’s reflections are captured in the lyrics of Bitter Taste, one of four tracks on his new EP The Roadside, his first new music for seven years and as impactful and poignant as ever.
With restrictions lifted, Billy is touring Stateside through the Autumn and looking forward to his return to Britain next year. “I can’t wait to get back on the road in the UK again,” Billy adds, “and enjoy that exhilaration and energy that only comes from playing in front of a live British audience.”
Billy’s touring band features his long-time guitarist and collaborator Steve Stevens along with Stephen McGrath (bass, backing vocals), Billy Morrison (guitar, backing vocals), Paul Trudeau (keyboards, backing vocals) and drummer Erik Eldenius.
Supporting Billy Idol are very special guests The Go-Go’s making their first UK appearance for 26 years. “We are thrilled to be sharing the stage with Billy Idol on his 2022 Summer UK tour dates. We haven’t had an opportunity to play for our British fans in 26 years and can’t wait to see you all,” says The Go-Go’s.
Billy Idol The Roadside Tour 2022 dates:
Saturday 11 June Glasgow The SSE Hydro
Monday 13 June Manchester AO Arena
Wednesday 15 June Birmingham Resorts World Arena
Saturday 18 June London The SSE Arena, Wembley
Sunday 19 June Cardiff Motorpoint Arena
Tuesday 21 June Leeds First Direct Arena
Tickets for The Roadside Tour 2022 are on sale from 9am on Thursday 30th September 2021 and can be purchased from www.aegpresents.co.uk/billy-idol.