Billy Idol Says It’s ‘Funny’ That People Get Married to ‘White Wedding’ Since It’s Actually an ‘Anti-Marriage Song’ (Exclusive)

Tereza Shkurtaj, Mark GraySat, May 30, 2026 at 10:58 AM UTC

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Billy Idol at the American Music Awards in 2026
Credit: Ethan Miller/Getty -

Billy Idol received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 American Music Awards

Before the ceremony, Idol reflected on the evolving meaning of his 1982 hit “White Wedding,” originally written as an "anti-marriage song"

In his speech, the rock icon encouraged young artists to embrace creativity and pursue a life of art during his acceptance speech

Billy Idol took the stage at the 2026 American Music Awards for a medley of his biggest hits while also accepting the show’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

Though his performance included classics like “Eyes Without a Face” and “Dancing with Myself,” one of his most recognizable tracks, “White Wedding,” was noticeably absent. When asked by PEOPLE if any of his hit songs have taken on a different meaning over the years, Idol pointed to the 1982 song.

“'Well, 'White Wedding' was a bit of an anti-marriage song, but people get married to it,” he says. “So there you go. They changed that, the meaning of that.”

Billy Idol in 2015
Credit: Scott Legato/FilmMagic

Still, the rock icon has embraced the unexpected legacy the song has taken on over the decades.

"It's funny, but it's great. I'm glad people have enjoyed it," he adds. "Whatever they've used it for, I'm glad they've enjoyed the music and I've had a great time."

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The 2026 American Music Awards, hosted by Queen Latifah, aired live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas via CBS and Paramount+ on Monday, May 25.

Actor and musician Leon Thomas presented Idol with the Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring the British singer's decades-long influence on music and pop culture.

Idol first broke onto the scene in the late 1970s with the punk band Generation X before launching a solo career packed with era-defining hits, signature platinum-blond style and a rebellious image that helped make him one of rock’s biggest stars.

Billy Idol at the American Music Awards in May 2026
Credit: Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic

In addition to receiving the prestigious honor, Idol delivered his first-ever AMAs performance and made his first appearance at the show since 2004.

During his acceptance speech, Idol took a moment to encourage younger artists hoping to follow a creative path of their own.

"So to any kid out there who loves rock and roll or any music of any kind as much as Leon and I do, and if you're inspired to create that sense of freedom and pursue a life of art, all I can say is pick an instrument. Find out who you are and be it,” he said on stage.

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Source: “AOL Entertainment”