Billy Idol plays fan’s birthday in Seattle

Guitarist Steve Stevens (L) and recording artist Billy Idol perform at The Pearl concert theater at the Palms Casino Resort August 21, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. AFP FILE PHOTO

SEATTLE – A Seattle man says that having Billy Idol play his 26th birthday party made for the greatest night of his life.

Michael Henrichsen spent two years persuading the British rock icon to play his party, and it finally paid off at the packed Showbox SoDo club Friday.

First, Idol guitarist Steve Stevens played him ‘Happy Birthday’ in the middle of a solo. Then Idol called Henrichsen onto the stage for a rendition of the song.

Henrichsen’s ’80s cover band even got to play the opening act.

Idol told The Associated Press that Henrichsen’s effort stood out from other fan requests because his campaign involved four “Billy Idol Aid” charity concerts that raised $13,000 for the Northwest Harvest food bank and the American Red Cross.

Idol says that agreeing to play Henrichsen’s party in Seattle might help fans see another side of him.