Steve Stevens on Billy Idol Missing Rock Hall Induction: “I Look at It Glass Half Full”
Iconic guitarist Steve Stevens recently appeared on Loudwire Nights (May 20) to discuss the launch of his new signature guitar line with Ciari Guitars, but the conversation soon took a heartfelt turn toward his long-standing relationships with rock legends—particularly Billy Idol, Billy Morrison, and Ozzy Osbourne.
Known for his fiery solos and unmistakable guitar tone, Stevens is a seasoned collaborator with some of the biggest voices in rock music. Reflecting on his decades of experience, Stevens emphasized the importance of staying grounded and focused in his role as a musical partner.
“You have a job to do, you’re there for a reason,” Stevens told host Chuck Armstrong. “Obviously for me, it’s to play guitar or co-write. I feel the same way about Billy Idol as I do about Ozzy — I think he’s one of the greats.”
Stevens shared how he sees his contributions not just as a guitarist but as a creative partner.
“I’ve been blessed to work with so many great singers, been in the studio with them, creating… To me, Billy is one of the greatest. But I’m there as his partner, to contribute what I do. Hopefully, they think I’m one of the greats too, you know?”
The conversation took a more emotional tone when Armstrong expressed disappointment that Billy Idol was not inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s Class of 2025, despite being nominated.
Rather than dwell on the snub, Stevens chose to take the high road.
“I’m happy for the people that are getting in,” he responded. “I look at it glass half full. They are inducting some really worthwhile people, and I believe Billy will get in at some point.”
Interestingly, Stevens also mentioned that when he first heard about Idol’s nomination, he didn’t get overly excited — not out of cynicism, but from experience and humility. His measured response reflects the mindset of a musician who has seen the highs and lows of the industry and knows that legacy isn’t defined solely by awards or recognition.
Even though Billy Idol didn’t make the final cut for 2025, the loyalty and respect from someone as seasoned and revered as Steve Stevens speak volumes. Whether or not Idol makes it into the Hall next year or the year after, his impact — and the chemistry he shares with Stevens — is already cemented in rock history.
Steve Stevens Keeps It Grounded: “My Life Didn’t Change When I Won a Grammy”
Even after decades in the music industry, performing with icons and winning a Grammy, Steve Stevens remains incredibly down-to-earth. During his recent chat on Loudwire Nights, Stevens reminded fans that despite his accolades and long list of accomplishments, his daily life remains refreshingly normal.
“I still have to clean my cat’s litter box and take the garbage out on Tuesday, so it’s not going to change that much,” he told host Chuck Armstrong, chuckling.
“You know, my life didn’t change when I won a Grammy one iota.”
Despite the humble take, Stevens doesn’t take his journey for granted. He shared that he’s immensely thankful for the career he’s built doing what he loves most: creating music.
“I’m really grateful that I get to do what I always wanted to do,” he said.
“Being a part of making new music that’s being celebrated — the new chart positions for Billy’s record came out, and we haven’t had numbers like that since Rebel Yell. It’s quite amazing.”
What Else Did Steve Stevens Talk About on Loudwire Nights?
Along with reflecting on his career and his work with Billy Idol, Stevens also gave fans a glimpse into some exciting developments:
His Revolutionary Foldable Guitar With Ciari Guitars
Stevens introduced his new signature guitar, a compact and foldable model created with Ciari Guitars, calling it a major innovation.
“This is a revolutionary instrument,” he said.
“The design that goes into this thing is incredible. It’s no gimmick. It’s got absolutely great components to it, and it fits in a backpack that you can put under the seat of an airplane.”
Upcoming Studio Work With a NYC Punk Rock Icon
Looking ahead, Stevens is jumping into the producer’s chair for a punk rock legend.
“I’m working with Sonny Vincent of The Testors — a legendary punk rock figure in New York,” Stevens revealed.
“I’m going to be producing an EP for him, and we just started. We’ve got some basic tracks done, and I’ve got to finish that. Sonny deserves some exposure.”
Life in the Legendary NYC “Music Building”
Stevens also reminisced about his early days in New York City, when Billy Idol first came to the U.S. to launch his solo career. At the time, Stevens lived in a place that was buzzing with rock ‘n’ roll history.
“I lived in a legendary building … It was called The Music Building. Cyndi Lauper lived there. The Dead Boys used to rehearse there… Sylvain Sylvain rehearsed in our studio,” he said.
“We had a loft there, and he actually helped give me my stage name.”
From humble beginnings in a NYC loft to international stages, Grammy wins, and foldable guitars, Steve Stevens continues to evolve while staying grounded — and above all, grateful.
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