Sex Pistols

Sex Pistols
The Sex Pistols in Amsterdam in 1977 (L–R: Paul Cook, Glen Matlock, Johnny Rotten and Steve Jones)
Background information
Origin	London, England
Genres	Punk rock
Years active	1975–1978 1996–2001 2002–2003 2007–2008
Labels	EMI A&M Virgin Universal Music Group
Associated acts	Siouxsie and the Banshees The Flowers of Romance Rich Kids Public Image Ltd Vicious White Kids Sham Pistols The Professionals Chequered Past Chiefs of Relief Fantasy 7 Neurotic Outsiders The Fallen Leaves Man Raze Subway Sect
Website	www.sexpistolsofficial.com
Past members	Johnny Rotten Steve Jones Glen Matlock Paul Cook Sid Vicious

The Sex Pistols were an English punk rock band formed in London in 1975. Although they initially lasted just two and a half years and produced only four singles and one studio album, Never Mind the Bollocks, Here's the Sex Pistols, they are considered one of the most influential acts in the history of popular music, having initiated the punk movement in the United Kingdom, and inspired many later punk rock, thrash metal and alternative rock musicians.

The first incarnation of the Sex Pistols was singer Johnny Rotten (John Lydon), lead guitarist Steve Jones, drummer Paul Cook and bassist Glen Matlock. Matlock was replaced by Sid Vicious (John Ritchie) early in 1977. Under the management of Malcolm McLaren, a visual artist, performer, clothes designer and boutique owner, the band provoked controversies that garnered a significant amount of publicity. Their concerts repeatedly faced difficulties with organisers and local authorities, and public appearances often ended in mayhem. Their 1977 single "God Save the Queen", attacking social conformity and deference to the Crown, precipitated the "last and greatest outbreak of pop-based moral pandemonium". Subjects addressed in their frequently obscene lyrics included the music industry, consumerism, abortion, violence, apathy, anarchy, fascism, the British Royal Family and the Holocaust.