Idol Songs: 11 of the Best by Billy Idol
Idol Songs: 11 of the Best is a compilation album by English rock vocalist Billy Idol, released in 1988. It comprises all the singles released from his first three albums, Billy Idol, Rebel Yell and Whiplash Smile, plus the live version of "Mony Mony" and re-recorded Generation X song "Dancing with Myself", both of which appeared on Idol's debut EP Don't Stop. A limited edition version also contained a further four remixes. The album reached number 2 in the UK. The album has been certified by BPI platinum. It was reissued with a different title and cover artwork in 2003 as The Essential.
Billy Idol’s platinum shock-top and patented sneer are among New Wave’s most iconic artifacts, as are his many unforgettable anthems. The snarling “Rebel Yell” is a perfect package of hard rock, unstoppable hooks and that inimitable, feral yowl, while the buzz-saw guitars of “Dancing with Myself” burst with the quick-step energy that introduced pogoing to the MTV generation. He even shows off his soulful side on “Flesh for Fantasy” and “Mony Mony”, balancing polished keyboards with touches of funk and gospel.
