U.S. tour launch in Chicago sees Billy Idol and Steve Stevens in top form
In the heart of suburban Chicago, the Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre was ablaze with energy as rock icon Billy Idol started his "It's a Nice Day to... Tour Again!" U.S. run on Thursday [1]. The night was filled with a mix of old favourites and new tracks from Idol's latest album, "Dream Into It", released on April 25, 2025 [1][2].
Joan Jett, who opened for Idol, performed a variety of songs, including "I Love Rock & Roll" and "Crimson & Clover". But the spotlight soon shifted to Idol, who delivered a cover of Rose Royce's "Love Don't Live Here Anymore" [1].
Steve Stevens, Idol's longtime guitarist, took centre stage for a flamenco-fueled electro-acoustic solo [1]. The audience was then treated to a high-energy performance of "Rebel Yell", with Idol racing at the top of the second verse [1].
Idol encouraged the audience to "have as much fun as you can" during the show [1]. He closed the night with a rousing rendition of "White Wedding" [1].
"Dream Into It" is an autobiographical album, chronicling Idol's journey from his punk rock days to MTV fame, personal struggles, and eventual growth and embrace of family life [1][2]. The album features significant collaboration with Stevens and guest appearances by Joan Jett, Avril Lavigne, and Alison Mosshart [1].
The album's standout tracks include "Still Dancing", which Idol says captures his life story, and "Wildside" featuring Joan Jett [1]. Backing vocalists Jessica Childress and Kitten Kuroi shined on the track "Mony Mony" [1].
Steve Stevens also covered parts of "Over the Hills and Far Away" and "Stairway to Heaven" during his solo [1]. Idol even riled up fans from backstage during an encore break [1].
As Idol approaches his 70th birthday in November, his mission statement remains the same: "We've gotta have fun while we're alive, right?" [1]. The tour resumes this Wednesday at New York City's Madison Square Garden [1].
[1] - Source: Billboard [2] - Source: NME
