Though there is some discrepancy regarding the reason for original Sex Pistols bassist Glen Matlock’s departure, two things remain true: first, Glen and Johnny did not get along—a rift fueled by Malcolm McLaren, who intentionally stoked tension between band members to create the animosity he felt solidified their image—and second, Glen’s contribution to Never Mind the Bollocks was immense. While he only performed bass on 'Anarchy in the U.K.,' he is a credited songwriter on 10 of the 12 tracks. His replacement, Sid Vicious, appeared on only one track, 'Bodies' (and that was minimal). Guitarist Steve Jones performed the majority of the bass work on the album.
Regardless of the perspective, Glen was vital to the band's history. Steve Jones once noted the group likely would have recorded more albums had Matlock stayed and had they avoided the infamous Bill Grundy interview. While Glen was the primary musical catalyst, his departure led to Sid Vicious. It remains a historical debate whether the band would have achieved legendary status without that specific chaos. Replacing Glen with the iconic Sid, releasing only one album, and the eventual breakup is what ultimately defined their legacy.
As most who know me are aware, I am a lifelong fan of the Sex Pistols. My friend Dave is no different. He recently managed to obtain a signed copy of an EP by Glen Matlock titled Sexy Beast. Released in 2017, it features an awesome lineup: Earl Slick on guitar, Slim Jim Phantom (of the Stray Cats) on drums, and Jim Lowe on bass. Dave gave this to me as a gift, and it is also signed by Earl Slick. To say this is awesome would be an understatement; with Matlock's autograph, I now have the autographs of three of the original Sex Pistols. Thank you, my friend!
