Billy Idol launched his latest tour in Phoenix, Arizona, with rock legend Joan Jett opening the show in support of his new album Dream Into It. The tour, cheekily titled It’s a Nice Day to… Tour Again, packed the house on a picture-perfect evening—not too hot, not too cold.
Joan Jett lit the fuse, warming up the crowd with a barrage of hits that reminded everyone why she’s been a rock icon for over 50 years. She’s no stranger to delivering exactly what her fans came for. Jett also teamed up with Idol on his new album for a track called “Wildside,” and while fans were hoping the duo would take the stage together, it didn’t happen that night—leaving many hoping for a surprise that never came.
When Idol hit the stage, he was fired up and ready to roll. If you think this 69-year-old legend is slowing down, think again. Backed by his longtime guitar virtuoso Steve Stevens, they tore through a nearly two-hour set that mixed fan favorites with fresh cuts from Dream Into It. The blend of old and new tracks struck the right chord with Idol Nation, keeping the crowd on their feet and singing along all night.
The setlist was electric on its own, but Stevens’ jaw-dropping solo—a 20-minute medley weaving together Zeppelin riffs with Van Halen flourishes—took the night to another level. Thousands of fans belting out classics like “Mony Mony” and “Rebel Yell” created a powerful, communal energy. At moments, Idol simply stood back and soaked it all in, letting his sea of supporters carry the chorus.
The encore was a four-song knockout, featuring a fiery rendition of “Hot in the City” and, of course, “White Wedding,” which practically blew the roof off the Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre. Fans left buzzing, many clearly wishing the night wasn’t over.
The dynamic between Stevens and Idol remains magnetic, with their tight-knit band firing on all cylinders. From the first note to the last, they gave it everything. Idol’s connection with the audience was palpable—he tossed out signed drumsticks, drumheads, and even setlists to a few lucky fans, while Stevens surprised everyone by ripping into his Top Gun anthem mid-song during “Blue Highway.” Just another epic moment in a night full of them.
Idol also debuted four tracks from Dream Into It—even though the album had just dropped, fans were already singing along, clearly in sync with the new material. Oh, and did I mention he threw in a Generation X tune? A nod to the band that launched him before he became Billy Idol.
If you get the chance to see this tour—don’t hesitate. You won’t leave disappointed. Check for dates here.
