Generation X

About Generation X

In 1976, the punk rock band Generation X came onto the music scene, winning fans with their fast-paced beats and their charismatic frontman, Billy Idol. Though never as big as other U.K. punk acts like The Clash or The Sex Pistols, Generation X became successful in their own right with hits such as "Your Generation" and "Dancing With Myself."nnBased out of Britain, Generation X was comprised of band members Billy Idol, Tony James, Bob Andrews, and Mark Laff during their most successful years. In 1976 shortly after forming the band, they were asked to play at The Roxy in London. This was quite a big deal, as this was not only their first live performance, but also the first show of its kind at The Roxy. Another notable moment for the band was their appearance on "Top of the Pops," the British version of MTV.nnThroughout their career, Generation X struggled with internal conflicts that ultimately resulted in changing band members and a sound that ranged from punk rock to old rock to heavy rock. By 1980, Billy Idol and Tony James were the only original band members left, with Bob Andrews and Mark Laff forming a new band. Generation X became GenX, and included new members Terry Chimes from The Clash and guitarist James Stevenson. One album was released in 1981, but afterwards the band broke up, with Billy Idol going on to pursue a solo career.nnDue to Billy Idol's highly successful solo career, Generation X gained somewhat of a following of people who became interested in the music simply because it was Billy Idol's former band. New albums containing some of the band's rare songs and greatest hits were released in 1985, 1998, and 2000.