Net Worth Ranker
What Is Billy Idol’s Net Worth?
Billy Idol, the English rock musician, singer-songwriter, and actor, has amassed a considerable fortune throughout his career. As of 2025, his net worth is estimated to be $60 million. This impressive wealth is primarily attributed to his successful music career, including album sales, singles, touring, and music publishing.
Early Career and Musical Achievements
William Michael Albert Broad, known professionally as Billy Idol, was born on November 30, 1955. Idol’s musical journey began in the mid-1970s. In 1976, Billy played guitar for Chelsea, and later that year formed Generation X with Tony James. Generation X released three albums: “Generation X” (1978), “Valley of the Dolls” (1979), and “Kiss Me Deadly” (1981) with Chrysalis Records. While specific sales figures for these albums are difficult to pinpoint, their success contributed to Idol’s initial recognition and earnings in the music industry.
Idol’s solo career began in 1981, and he quickly gained popularity. His debut solo album, “Billy Idol,” released on July 16, 1982, achieved Gold certification in the United States and Platinum in Canada. This translates to at least 500,000 copies sold in the U.S. and 100,000 copies in Canada, respectively. The single “White Wedding” reached #4 on the “Billboard” Top Tracks chart, further boosting the album’s sales and Idol’s income.
His follow-up album, “Rebel Yell” (1983), was a major commercial success, achieving 2x Platinum status in the U.S. and 5x Platinum in Canada. This represents sales of over 2 million copies in the U.S. and 500,000 copies in Canada. The hit single “Eyes Without a Face” reached the top 10 in the charts in the U.S., Germany, and New Zealand, adding significantly to his royalties and earnings from airplay and sales. “Whiplash Smile,” released in 1986, went Platinum in the U.S. (1 million+ copies), 3x Platinum in Canada (300,000+ copies), and Gold in the U.K. and Finland (100,000+ and 25,000+ copies respectively), demonstrating its broad appeal and contributing to his financial success.
In 1987, Idol released the remix album “Vital Idol,” and his live version of “Mony Mony” topped the “Billboard” Hot 100 chart. The commercial success of “Mony Mony” as a single translated into substantial royalties from sales and airplay. While concrete numbers are not available, a number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 typically results in significant revenue for the artist and publisher. His album “Charmed Life” was released in 1990, which included the hit “Cradle of Love” and a cover of The Doors’ “L.A. Woman.” Idol has released eight solo studio albums, including the 2x Platinum “Rebel Yell” (1983) and the Christmas album “Happy Holidays” (2006).
Other Ventures Contributing to Billy Idol’s Net Worth
Beyond music sales, Billy Idol’s net worth is influenced by several other ventures. He has appeared in movies such as “The Doors” (2001) and “The Wedding Singer” (1998). While Idol’s exact earnings from these roles aren’t public, acting roles contribute to his overall income. Additionally, his 2014 memoir, “Dancing with Myself,” became a “New York Times” bestseller. The financial specifics of his book deal remain private, becoming a New York Times bestseller would lead to increased royalties and wider recognition.
His music has been featured in video games like “Guitar Hero World Tour” (2008) and “Rock Band 2,” generating licensing revenue. Licensing fees for music in video games vary significantly but can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars per song, depending on the game’s popularity and usage of the track. Idol also earns money from touring and live performances. Although specific concert revenue is not always publicly accessible, established artists can generate significant income from ticket sales, merchandise, and other revenue streams related to live shows.
In 2020, Idol participated in a public service campaign called “Billy Never Idles.” While this campaign likely did not provide direct financial compensation, it demonstrates his ongoing engagement with public initiatives, which can enhance his brand and potentially lead to other opportunities. Also in 2020, he performed on the track “Night Crawling” on the Miley Cyrus album “Plastic Hearts.” Feature spots on well known artist’s albums could bring in revenue to the performing artist.
Idol’s consistent presence in the music industry and his diverse engagements have collectively shaped his $60 million net worth. His discography’s album and single sales, revenue from live performances, acting work, book sales, music licensing, and promotional activities all make up his financial profile.
