Rare TV footage - Billy Idol on Late Night With David Letterman, 1984

In the early 80s Billy Idol left the punk band ‘Generation X’ and took off on a solo career which led to international recognition. His second studio album Rebel Yell produced his biggest singles ‘Rebel Yell’ and ‘Eyes Without A Face’ and made Idol a star on MTV’s Second British Invasion roster.

In July of 1984 Billy Idol stopped by for a visit with David Letterman on the comedian’s Late Night talk show. This was the British singer’s only appearance on Late Night and he was afforded two complete segments. This YouTube video shows both segments and provides an amusing contrast between the look and personalities of Idol and Letterman. There is also some nice tongue in cheek humour from Billy. Enjoy!

You can listen to tunes from Billy Idol and other artists from the 1980s on Dusty Discs Radio.