Billy Idol receives AMA Lifetime Achievement Award and shares message to young musicians

Billy Idol received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 52nd American Music Awards in Las Vegas on May 25, closing the ceremony with a speech reflecting on his decades-long career and a live performance of two of his best-known songs.

The singer was presented with the award by R&B artist Leon Thomas, who said he first became familiar with Idol’s music through his late stepfather, musician Jon Kevin Jones. Accepting the honour on stage, Idol thanked fans for supporting his career over the years.

“I've been able to live my dream. It's really because of all of you,” Idol told the audience while accepting the award.

The musician, who began his career during the rise of the UK punk rock scene around 50 years ago, also reflected on the early years of his journey in music.

“We believed in what we were doing. And we thought that if we just dreamed into this life and gave it everything we had, it would give it back to us in spades. And that's exactly what happened,” he said.

Idol later addressed younger artists and aspiring musicians watching the ceremony. Speaking about creativity and artistic freedom, he encouraged them to pursue their own identity through music and art.

“All I can say is, pick up an instrument, find out who you are, and be it!” he said.

Following the speech, Idol returned to the stage alongside longtime collaborator and guitarist Steve Stevens. The pair performed “Eyes Without a Face” and “Dancing with Myself” to close the awards show.

The appearance comes ahead of Idol and Stevens’ upcoming induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony is scheduled to take place in Los Angeles on November 14 and will air later this year on ABC and Disney+.