Billy Idol (aka William Broad) cranked out a number of classics from the 80s, beginning with "Hot In The City," which landed at #23 in 1982. His biggest hit was the #1 smash and cover of the Tommy James song "Mony Mony," followed by the #2 hit "Cradle Of Love" in 1990. Some of Idol's best known hits may not have performed as well as you think. "Rebel Yell" barely reached #46 and "White Wedding" had to be released twice just to get to #36. "Dancing With Myself" never even broke the top 100. Idol faded into obscurity during the 90s but released a terrific album called "Devil's Playground" in 2005. The record sounds more energetic and fierce than most of his 80s work. "World Comin' Down" is the obvious standout, but be sure not to miss "Super Overdrive," "Sherri," and "Yellin' At The Xmas Tree" (just for fun).
How in the world "Happy" by Memphis R&B artist William Bell wasn't a major hit is beyond me. This infectious tune would make even Dick Cheney dance. On second thought, push that image from your mind and just enjoy the video below. Bell never really got his due back in the 60s and 70s. He had a few modest hits starting with "You Don't Miss Your Water" in 1962. His biggest hit did not arrive until 1977 with "Tryin' To Love Two", which went to #10. He hasn't been on the chart since. Billy Idol must have been a fan, though. He covered Bell's tune, "I Forgot To Be Your Lover", which went to #45 in 1969. Idol took it to #6 in 1986 retitled as "To Be A Lover".
