What Do You Want

The song "What Do You Want" by Generation X, from their 1979 album Valley of the Dolls, is a lesser-known track that captures the band's shift from raw punk to a more polished, glam-influenced sound. In a 1980 interview with New Musical Express, bassist Tony James described the song as an attempt to blend their punk roots with a broader rock appeal, inspired by the romanticism of 1970s rock bands like Mott the Hoople. He admitted the band was "chasing a myth" with the album, aiming for a grand, cinematic feel that didn’t fully resonate with fans or critics. The track’s lyrics, with their yearning tone, reflect the band’s youthful ambition, though James later reflected on X that the album’s production, helmed by Ian Hunter, felt "overblown" to some purists. A post on PunkRockStory’s X account in 2024 noted the song’s inclusion in the album’s 45th-anniversary celebration, highlighting its enduring cult status among "Zoo Freaks" who dig its raw energy.

Another piece of trivia comes from fan discussions on the Generation X Fans Facebook group, where members recall the song being a staple in the band’s live sets during their 1979 UK tour. One fan shared a story from a London gig where Billy Idol, mid-performance, jumped into the crowd during "What Do You Want," sparking a frenzy that nearly halted the show. The song’s driving rhythm and catchy chorus made it a crowd-pleaser, even if it didn’t chart like the album’s singles "King Rocker" or "Valley of the Dolls." In a 2018 blog post on 2loud2oldmusic.com, the track was praised for its "pop-punk edge," with the reviewer noting its influence on later punk-pop bands, a sentiment echoed by Zoo Crew listeners who spin it for its nostalgic vibe.

Generation X formed in London on November 21, 1976, when Billy Idol (born William Broad), Tony James, and John Towe, all former members of the punk band Chelsea, decided to break away from Chelsea’s lead singer Gene October. Inspired by a 1965 sociology book titled Generation X, owned by Idol’s mother, the trio adopted the name and set out to carve their own path in the burgeoning punk scene. Idol switched from guitar to vocals, and Bob "Derwood" Andrews joined as lead guitarist, with Mark Laff later replacing Towe on drums. Their early gigs at London’s Roxy Club and appearances on BBC’s Top of the Pops helped them stand out, blending punk’s raw energy with 1960s British pop influences. By 1977, they signed with Chrysalis Records, releasing their debut single "Your Generation," which captured their defiant, youthful spirit.

The band’s official website is billyidol.net, which primarily focuses on Billy Idol’s solo career but includes discography details for Generation X. Their official Facebook page shares updates on re-releases and anniversary posts for albums like Valley of the Dolls. On Instagram, the band’s account posts throwback photos and clips, including rare shots from the Valley of the Dolls recording sessions. Their X account is less active but occasionally retweets fan posts and punk history content. Fans can connect on the Generation X Fans Facebook group, a lively community sharing memorabilia and concert stories. Another fan hub is punkrocker.org.uk, which features a detailed band profile and discography, perfect for Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper into Generation X’s legacy.