The most famous (and infamous) band of the late 70s British punk scene. Their rebellious image combined with a commercial sound (partly thanks to producer Chris Thomas) created some of the most memorable moments of the 70s - both musical and otherwise. Line-up: Johnny Rotten (John Lydon, b. January 31, 1956 - vocals), Steve Jones (b. September 3, 1955 - guitar), Glen Matlock (b. August 27, 1956 - bass) and Paul Cook (b. July 20, 1956 - drums). In February 1977, Matlock was replaced by Sid Vicious (John Ritchie aka John Beverley, b. May 10, 1957). The band effectively split up after their 1978 US tour, although Jones and Cook continued to record under the name for another year or so.

The original line-up reformed in 1996 for a series of concert tours, and has played live shows off and on since then, and released live recordings.

Original line-up, minus John Lydon reformed in 2024 with Frank Carter on vocals, initially to raise funds for Bush Hall in Shepherd’s Bush, west London, before touring the UK.

For copyrights to the band, see Sex Pistols.