POP/ROCK - June 4, 1987

Billy Idol is suffering from a severe case of Murphy’s Law backlash. First, he was implicated--and acquitted--in a New York street drug bust. Next, four people hurt at his show in Portland, Ore., sued him for millions (no decision yet). If that weren’t enough, Idol’s sold-out Madison Square Garden concert was canceled Tuesday when flaking asbestos from the Garden ceiling could not be removed in time. Officials said refunds were being offered to the 20,000 fans who bought tickets. Workers hope to have the problem solved before the next scheduled event, a concert Friday by singer Luther Vandross. Ellen Golden, a spokeswoman for Idol, said the British musician was “very disappointed” over the cancellation and the possibility of rescheduling was being explored.