Billy Idol’s “Dancing with Myself” Lyrics Meaning
“Dancing with Myself” originated from Billy Idol and one of his homies actually witnessing people dance with themselves, in front of mirrors, in a Japanese disco. That’s why at the beginning of the song he gives a shoutout to “Tokyo”. But in this song, as the title implies he depicts himself as someone who likes to boogie, alone, in front of a mirror. Or more specifically, one of the reasons he is doing so is because he’s “lonely”.
This basal sentiment comes more into play during the second verse, as the song suddenly takes a romantic twist. In it, Billy puts forth the idea that the reason he is ‘dancing with himself’ is because he has yet to find the right type of dance partner, i.e. a romantic interest. But that doesn’t negate the fact that he still enjoys bogeying solo. So whereas the narrator does not have any significant other to speak of, overall he is not privy to letting the reality of his singlehood overwhelm his intent to enjoy life.
“Dancing with Myself” has another meaning?
And conclusively, despite this song once again originating from Idol’s dance-floor experiences in Japan, it should be noted that some listeners see “Dancing with Myself” as alluding to someone engaging in sensual self-gratification. And what makes this theory noteworthy is that, to a degree, Idol himself has actually supported it.
So we can say for the most part that the title of this song is to be literally taken, as in it details the lifestyle of a solo dancer. But at the same time, there is also an element of sensual/romantic tension, if you will, contained therein.
Music Video
The music video to Idol’s version, helmed by director Tody Hooper, was one of the first to air on MTV. And its exposure on MTV significantly contributed to the track’s overall popularity.
Facts about “Dancing with Myself”
Billy Idol’s version of “Dancing with Myself” was released by Chrysalis Records on 14 July 1981. It was the lead single from his debut-solo project, which was entitled “Don’t Stop”.
This song was also one of the hits, included in Idol’s 2001 “Greatest Hits” compilation album. The album also featured classics like “Rebel Yell” and “Eyes Without a Face“.
And the song itself charted in Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and United States.
Who wrote “Dancing with Myself”?
“Dancing with Myself” was written by Billy Idol alongside Tony James, and the track was produced by Keith Forsey.
Song’s History
It must be mentioned that Idol wasn’t the first to release this song. The history of the song actually dates back to the late 1979, when Idol was a member of a band called Generation X. The band was the first to record a demo of “Dancing with Myself”.
Afterwards a later iteration of the band, this time just called Gen X, actually released their own version of the song in 1980.
