Billy Idol first achieved fame in the punk rock era as a member of the band, "Generation X." Generation X were one of the first punk bands to appear on the popular BBC Television music program Top of the Pops. Unlike other punk bands, Generation X ignored some of the “rules” and “ideals” adopted by UK punk rock bands, taking inspiration from British pop of the '60s. In 1977, they covered John Lennon’s "Gimme Some Truth", and in 1979 they teamed up with veteran old-school rocker Ian Hunter who produced their second album Valley of the Dolls. Idol then embarked on a successful solo career, aided by a series of stylish music videos, making him one of the first MTV stars. Idol continues to tour with guitarist Steve Stevens and has a fan base all around the world.