Billy Idol visits Downey middle school to promote music education

Rock singer Billy Idol visited Griffiths Middle School in Downey as part of a nationwide initiative to promote music education in public schools. The visit was organized through a partnership involving the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Save The Music, and iHeartMedia.

During the event, students performed his hit song ‘Rebel Yell’ for the singer. Idol, a 2026 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, participated in a question-and-answer session where he discussed his musical upbringing in England.

The multiyear program aims to fund at least 25 new music education programs over three years by connecting students with professional musicians. Save The Music is the first recipient of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Foundation’s grantmaking initiative, with planned programs in several communities, including the Los Angeles and Compton areas.