Rebel Yell
"Rebel Yell"
More, more, more! Unleash the energy of Billy Idol's "Rebel Yell"! This iconic 1983 anthem masterfully blends Hard Rock power with cutting-edge New Wave synths. Famous for Steve Stevens' explosive guitar work and Idol's signature sneer, its driving intensity makes it an unforgettable rock classic.
- TITLE: Rebel Yell
- BAND: Billy Idol
- GENRE: Hard Rock, New Wave
- OTHER: Workout Song
- RELEASEDAY: January 17
- YEAR: 1983
The explosive title track from Billy Idol's late 1983 sophomore album Rebel Yell, this song cemented his solo stardom worldwide (charting significantly in 1984). Co-written with guitarist Steve Stevens, "Rebel Yell" perfectly fused genres – layering Stevens' powerful Hard Rock riffs and blistering solos over driving New Wave synthesizer patterns, creating a dynamic and modern rock sound for the era.
Propelled by heavy MTV rotation of its visually striking music video, "Rebel Yell" became a massive international hit. Its iconic chorus ("With a rebel yell, she cried more, more, more!") and blend of rock swagger with electronic textures made it unforgettable. A definitive 80s rock anthem, its relentless energy also makes it a perennial favorite workout song today, April 13, 2025.
SONG MEANING: While the title "Rebel Yell" was inspired by Idol seeing fellow musicians drinking Rebel Yell bourbon, the song's lyrics depict an intense, highly charged expression of sexual passion and desire. Lines like "She cried more, more, more," "Flesh for fantasy," and the overall driving energy suggest a powerful, perhaps demanding or overwhelming, physical encounter and the call for complete abandon and release within that moment of passion.
"Billy Idol"
- TITLE: Billy Idol
- ACTIVE: 1976–present (1976)
- BAND: Billy Idol
"Dancing With Myself"
- TITLE: Dancing With Myself
- BAND: Billy Idol
- GENRE: Glam Rock, New Wave, Power Pop
- RELEASEDAY: October 12
- YEAR: 1981
