Billy Idol recently released a 40th anniversary expanded reissue of his seminal album Rebel Yell, and to celebrate the occasion, he performed the classic title track live on NBC’s TODAY.
The performance is notable in that Billy and his longtime guitarist Steve Stevens play the song semi-unplugged. Following an introduction by Al Roker, the duo are left to their lonesome on the sound stage, creating an intimate and up-close setting for the rendition.
Stevens guides the song’s arrangement with electric-acoustic strums that let Idol’s voice soar commandingly through the room. Not only does the stripped-down approach fit perfectly within the TODAY show’s studio format, it also offers an alternate spin on an otherwise rousing rock anthem.
The TODAY appearance follows a lighting ceremony for Idol at the Empire State Building. There, Idol and Stevens performed a similar acoustic concert for a select group of fans (see snippet below).
Billy Idol and his band are set to play numerous US festivals and North American headlining dates, including a tour of Canada, throughout the coming months.
For more of Idol, check out his appearance on our Story Behind the Song podcast, during which he discussed the origins and legacy behind his classic “White Wedding.” Listen wherever you get your podcasts, or using the player ahead.
Below you can watch Billy Idol and Steve Stevens play “Rebel Yell” on TODAY and at the Empire State Building.
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— Empire State Building (@EmpireStateBldg) April 30, 2024
