Whiplash Smile Songs Ranked
Whiplash Smile is the third studio album by English rock singer Billy Idol, released on 20 October 1986 by Chrysalis Records. After his successful album Rebel Yell (1983), Idol continued his collaboration with producer Keith Forsey and guitarist Steve Stevens while writing and producing songs for the album. The album utilizes Stevens’ characteristic guitar work, dance beats, and synth-heavy production. Whiplash Smile received generally mixed reviews from music critics. Commercially the album noted a success similar to his previous album, as it peaked at number six on the US Billboard 200. In the United Kingdom, it reached number eight and also peaked inside the top ten in many other countries, such as Australia, Canada, Germany, New Zealand, and Switzerland. Whiplash Smile was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and has sold more than two million copies worldwide. Here are all of Whiplash Smile’s songs ranked.
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10. Worlds Forgotten Boy
“The opening track, “Worlds Forgotten Boy” is a great adrenaline rush perfect for starting this set. When Whiplash Smile was released I was a bit let down. Billy and Steve sounded fantastic, but the drum machine and synth bass felt cold, canned. But something about the album wormed into my very being, and I began playing it compulsively, almost obsessively. “
9. Don’t Need a Gun
“Don’t Need a Gun” is without a doubt one of Steve Steven’s guitar playing gems. Just let this CD go on playing. Every song rocks out. It’s as good as anything that came out in 1986.”
8. To Be a Lover
“This is by far the best album from Billy Idol. Much more mature in musical terms than before. With a brilliant Steve Stevens, this disc puts Billy into my preferred musicians.”
See more: Billy Idol Albums Ranked
7. Beyond Belief
“Whiplash smile may not rock like Rebel Yell, but it sure packs good kick. I cannot think of a track I don’t like or I find dull. This is a classic Idol, nothing as fancy as Cyberpunk, but with wonderfully put together songs.”
6. Soul Standing By
“Very good instrumental work as well, goes to prove Steve Stevens knew what he was doing, you can feel his style throughout the album. Idol did show on the next albums he can do without Steve, but I think true Idol fans missed him.”
5. Fatal Charm
“If you like Billy Idol, even a little, get this album. Chances are you will like him more after you listened to this. Trust me, the money will be well spent. I bought it for about double the money a couple of years back from London, but I think it is worth every penny, so you have a bargain here.”
See more: Billy Idol Songs Ranked
4. Sweet Sixteen
“At the time Billy Idol made “whiplash smile” I was all about R.E.M., The Cure and Depeche mode. There was little room for the likes of Billy Idol. Even though my good friend owned the cassette and enjoyed the videos on MTV I just never sank my teeth into this album. Flash forward thirty years and this album holds up extremely well in today’s music.”
3. All Summer Single
“There’s some hooks here, but there’s also some sloppy tracks. A lot, actually. I think its amazing that certain pieces could be tailor made to be catchy as hell while the rest are just “meh.” That being said, at least they still have a bit of that wild man spark going.”
2. Man for All Seasons
“Man for all seasons” guitar solo, it’s a jazz solo in a rock song, I never heard something similar so well done. Powerful and poetical, his chemical formula is present in their maximum expression. Why is the last Idol-Stevens work? That is the question. I hope they come back together soon.”
1. One Night, One Chance
“This album is not that and is more heavy on the synths, drum machines, but why do you want a part 2 of Rebel Yell? An artist should evolve and go in different directions.But everything else, Billy’s howls, Steve’s wild wicked sounded guitars, and I think Thommy kills it on the drums.”