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Billy Idol received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 American Music Awards.
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Before the ceremony, Idol reflected on changing the meaning of his 1982 hit "White Wedding," originally written as an "anti-marriage song.".
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In his acceptance speech, the rock icon encouraged young artists to develop their creative potential and dedicate their lives to art.
Billy Idol took the stage at the 2026 American Music Awards to perform a medley of his biggest hits and accept the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Although his performance included classic hits like "Eyes Without a Face" and "Dancing with Myself," one of his most recognizable songs, "White Wedding," was noticeably absent. When PEOPLE asked Idol if any of his hits had changed their meaning over the years, he pointed to the 1982 song.
«"Well, the song 'White Wedding' was a bit anti-marriage, but people still get married to it," he says. "That's it. They changed the meaning.".
Billy Idol in 2015. Photo: Scott Legato/FilmMagic
Still, the rock icon has embraced the unexpected legacy the song has acquired over the decades.
«"It's funny, but it's great. I'm glad people liked it," he adds. "Whatever they used it for, I'm glad they liked the music, and I had a great time myself.".
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The 2026 American Music Awards, hosted by Queen Latifah, aired live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on CBS and Paramount+ on Monday, May 25.
Actor and musician Leon Thomas presented the Idol winner with the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing the British singer's long-standing influence on music and pop culture.
Idol first made his name in the late 1970s as a member of the punk band Generation X, before launching a solo career filled with era-defining hits, his signature platinum blonde locks, and a rebellious image that helped him become one of rock's biggest stars.
Billy Idol at the American Music Awards in May 2026. Photo: Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic
In addition to winning the prestigious award, Idol made his first AMAs appearance and first appearance on the show since 2004.
In his acceptance speech at the awards ceremony, Idol took the opportunity to encourage young artists looking to forge their own creative paths.
«"So to all the kids out there who love rock 'n' roll or any other music as much as Leon and I do, and if you're inspired by the desire to find a sense of freedom and dedicate your life to art, I have only one thing to say: pick an instrument. Find yourself and become who you are," he said from the stage.
Read the original article on People.