Like Moroder, Forsey started producing albums himself, and in 1982 produced Billy Idol’s solo debut album, Billy Idol and Icehouse’s global breakthrough album Primitive Man. Idol’s 1983 follow-up, Rebel Yell, went even further, combining Forsey’s affection for synthesized pop, Idol’s punk grit, and guitarist Steve Stevens’ heavy metal sound. 1983 was the year that established Forsey as a producer. He co-wrote “Flashdance… What a Feeling” with Moroder and Irene Cara, who sang the track, for the movie Flashdance. In 1984, the song earned an Academy Award. The popularity of Flashdance led to his co-writing songs featured on the soundtracks of Ghostbusters, Beverly Hills Cop, The NeverEnding Story and The Breakfast Club. The 1985 hit “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” from The Breakfast Club was originally offered to Simple Minds, who declined. But after Bryan Ferry, Billy Idol and several other artists passed on the song, Simple Minds reconsidered – and their recording went on to top the charts in several countries.

In 2003, Forsey produced the American guitar pop band Rooney. 2005 saw his return to Billy Idol, producing Devil’s Playground.