Steve Stevens attributes his remarkable journey as a musician to a diverse array of musical influences that have shaped his artistic identity over the years. His illustrious career includes a longstanding partnership with Billy Idol, marked by their iconic collaborations. While he embodies the essence of the punk rock ethos, Stevens also draws inspiration from the progressive rock legends such as Yes, Genesis, and King Crimson. These influences have significantly enriched his musical style, enabling him to create a sound that resonates with fans across generations.

Stevens is widely recognized for his contributions to 1980s hits with Idol, including classics like “Rebel Yell,” “Eyes Without a Face,” and “White Wedding.” His path to fame, however, was anything but conventional. A pivotal realization for him was the desire to be acknowledged as a full-fledged musician, rather than merely a guitarist. In his view, the former offers a more sustainable career trajectory, allowing him the freedom to explore various musical avenues.

To illustrate his early influences, Stevens points to his admiration for Genesis. He recalls their musical adventures that were not only audibly captivating but also visually stunning, particularly during the era of Peter Gabriel. In an interview on the UCR Podcast, he emphasizes the importance of combining technical prowess with visual appeal in live performances. He reminisces about attending the Emerson, Lake & Palmer concert during the Brain Salad Surgery tour in 1973 at Madison Square Garden, where the vibrant visuals and Keith Emerson’s electrifying presence left a lasting impression on him. “He was like the Jimi Hendrix of keyboards,” he shares, highlighting the extraordinary fusion of sound and spectacle that defined their performances.

READ MORE: Discover the Top 10 Songs by Emerson, Lake & Palmer

Stevens’ diverse musical vocabulary also draws from earlier experiences. He began playing guitar at the tender age of seven and initially immersed himself in the folk music scene of the time. “I didn’t get my first electric guitar until I was 13,” he reflects. His early influences included icons like James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, and John Fahey, as well as blues artists like Hot Tuna, featuring Jorma Kaukonen. This rich background in folk music laid the groundwork for his later exploration of classical guitar and jazz. As he encountered progressive rock musicians, he found that they expertly blended these various styles within the framework of a rock band. For instance, he admired how Steve Hackett incorporated beautiful classical guitar segments and psychedelic influences akin to Robert Fripp. This eclectic mix allowed him to apply his extensive learning to the rock genre, which was far more appealing than the traditional blues approach exemplified by guitarists like Eric Clapton.

Experience the Excitement of the Current Tour with Billy Idol

Now, several decades into his own musical journey, Stevens finds himself observing a new generation of musicians on platforms like YouTube, eager to interpret the legendary songs he helped create. “They mostly get it wrong,” he laughs, but he admires their enthusiasm. This summer, these budding artists will have an opportunity to witness the magic firsthand as Idol and Stevens embark on a tour alongside Joan Jett. “This is probably the biggest tour we’ve done since Rebel Yell and possibly Whiplash Smile,” he reveals, offering insight into the innovative production that awaits fans. He emphasizes that the core of their performance lies in the undeniable chemistry between him and Idol, stating, “The best special effect we have is our connection on stage.”

READ MORE: Explore the 2025 Tour Dates for Billy Idol and Joan Jett

Stevens clarifies that their band doesn’t rely on elaborate pyrotechnics to captivate audiences. Instead, they focus on delivering a compelling show enriched by technology and nostalgic elements that reflect their rich career history. “We incorporate projections of classic videos from our ’80s hits during the performance, providing a trip down memory lane for those who grew up with us,” he explains. Alongside these nostalgic visuals, they also integrate innovative animations that creatively resonate with their song themes, striving for a unique artistic expression that engages the audience.

Fans attending this summer’s shows will be treated to Stevens showcasing his new signature guitars from Ciari. These innovative instruments, which he utilized on their latest album, Dream Into It, are designed with remarkable features, including Rebel Yell pickups and a foldable design that allows for easy transport in a backpack.

Listen to Steve Stevens on the ‘UCR Podcast’