Generation X

Before Billy Idol became an ’80s rock icon, he fronted the feisty, first-gen UK punks Generation X.

Idol, drummer John Towe, and bassist Tony James were part of the pioneering punk band Chelsea before forming Generation X in London in 1976 with guitarist Bob “Derwood” Andrews.

Two years later, with Mark Laff replacing Towe, they released their self-titled debut album.