Generation X

Generation X was a seminal British punk rock band that emerged in 1976, blending punk's raw energy with significant new wave and power pop influences. The group's core members were singer-songwriter Billy Idol (later a highly successful solo artist) and bassist Tony James (who would go on to play with Sigue Sigue Sputnik and The Sisters of Mercy, among others).

Idol, then known as William Broad, and James formed Generation X after leaving the band Chelsea, led by Gene October. Their early performances included a notable gig in December 1976 at The Roxy, a key venue in London's Covent Garden, alongside contemporaries like Siouxsie & the Banshees. The band quickly established a strong visual identity, secured management, and after auditioning numerous drummers, settled on Mark Laff from Subway Sect.