Billy and I did not want to repeat ourselves with another Rebel Yell.

Billy Idol’s latest album, Dream Into It, represents a departure from the typical resurgence of artists leaning heavily on their past hits. Guitarist Steve Stevens, part of Idol’s band, shares insight into their creative process for this new project. Stevens emphasizes the importance of avoiding repetition and steering clear of revisiting the ’80s sound that made them famous.

Stevens explains that the creative spark for this album came from a desire to remain true to their musical instincts while still pushing new boundaries. Rejecting the idea of replicating past successes, Idol and Stevens sought to capture a fresh sound that resonated with current times. Despite the urge to replicate the success of hits like ‘Rebel Yell,’ they were committed to exploring new territories.

The title track, ’77,’ offers a glimpse into the band’s roots and the vibrant music scene of London in 1977. Stevens shares that this song was particularly meaningful to Idol, drawing from his personal experiences and memories of that era. It encapsulates the essence of punk rock mixed with dance rock and guitar hero elements, a blend characteristic of their new album.

While Dream Into It features modern influences, including guest appearances by Avril Lavigne and Alison Mosshart, Stevens acknowledges that their classic sound remains ingrained in their music. The collaborative process between Idol and Stevens has remained consistent over the years, with the duo drawing inspiration from personal anecdotes and shared experiences. Stevens describes their creative dynamic as akin to therapy, where lyrics and melodies are born from real-life stories.

Stevens’s signature sound on the album is defined by his reliance on Friedman amps and analog gear to capture warmth and depth in the recording process. Drawing inspiration from classic ’70s records, he aims to recreate that timeless sound while integrating modern techniques. Dream Into It showcases Stevens’s guitar prowess and his ability to enhance Idol’s vocals, earning him the title of Idol’s “secret weapon.”

The enduring partnership between Idol and Stevens is strengthened by their mutual respect for each other’s talents and creative vision. Stevens attributes their close bond to a shared musical background and a deep-rooted commitment to their craft. Their collaborative approach emphasizes teamwork, with a focus on enhancing vocal melodies and creating a cohesive sound.

As Dream Into It hits the shelves on April 25, fans can expect a fresh take on Billy Idol’s legacy, blending nostalgia with contemporary elements. The album serves as a testament to the enduring creativity and passion of Idol and Stevens as they continue to evolve and innovate in the music industry.