Billy Idol and Joan Jett
Greek Theatre, Berkeley
September 14, 2025
Photos by Raymond Ahner
Billy Idol brought his signature sneer, punk roots, and rock ’n’ roll swagger to the Greek Theatre in Berkeley on a recent balmy Sunday evening, and delivered a performance that proved why he remains a timeless icon. Backed by his longtime guitarist and collaborator Steve Stevens, Idol delivered a show that blended the raw energy of his early punk days with the polish of a veteran who knows exactly how to command a crowd. From the moment he stepped onstage, leather-clad and flashing that trademark curled lip, the audience was his.
The setlist was a mix of newer songs and classics, and fans couldn’t have asked for more. “Still Dancing,” from his latest release Dream Into It kicked off the night, and the fans were definitely into it. “Cradle of Love” and “Flesh for Fantasy” were up next, and they instantly ignited the crowd and set the tone for what would be an electrifying journey through Idol’s catalog. His delivery was as snarling and charismatic as ever, his voice still carrying that distinctive grit that made him a star in the 80s.
“Mony Mony” and “Blue Highway” had the entire venue on its feet, fists pumping and voices shouting every word back to him.
While Billy is the obvious focal point, Steve Stevens deserves equal recognition. His blistering guitar solo, which included snippets of “Over the Hills and Far Away, “Stairway to Heaven,” and “Eruption” showcased both technical mastery and dramatic flair. The chemistry between the two musicians was undeniable, even after almost 45 years together.
A touching tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne came about halfway through the set, with guitarist Billy Morrison, who was/is a long time friend of both Ozzy and Billy, delivering a few words before dedicating “Ready Steady Go” to him.
Idol also sprinkled in newer material, including “77,” on which he collaborated with Avril Lavigne, was well-received, though it was clear the crowd came to revel in nostalgia. Between songs, he engaged the audience with playful banter, flexing both his humor and enduring charisma.
By the time the four-song encore wrapped up with the beyond iconic “White Wedding,” the sold-out crowd was definitely wanting more and more. Billy Idol may be decades removed from his MTV heyday, but his performance proved that rock’s rebellious spirit never fades. He remains a living reminder of how powerful, fun, and unapologetically loud rock ’n’ roll can be.
Opening the show for Billy Idol on the It’s a Nice Day to Tour Again tour is the one and only Joan Jett. A legend in her own right, Joan delivered the goods with an hour-long set that included “I Hate Myself For Loving You,” “Crimson and Clover,” and of course “I Love Rock ‘n’ Roll.”
By the time it was all said and done, the show proved to be a great time with two of rock’s most iconic performers, even all these years later. You definitely don’t want to miss it when it hits your city.
Here’s a slideshow with more photos of Billy Idol and his band by Raymond Ahner:
