Originally formed as Chelsea along with lead singer Gene October, they soon broke away from October and changed their name to Generation X (after Jane Deverson's 1965 sociology book, a copy of which was owned by Idol's mother). Idol switched from guitar to vocal duties, and Bob "Derwood" Andrews joined as lead guitarist. They played their first live show on 21 December 1976 at The Roxy (becoming the very first band to play at the venue).