Sid Vicious

Sid Vicious was an English musician whose image became closely associated with the first wave of British punk. Born John Simon Ritchie, he was part of John Lydon’s circle before joining the Sex Pistols as bassist in February 1977, following Glen Matlock’s departure.

After the band split, he recorded My Way for The Great Rock ’n’ Roll Swindle, Malcolm McLaren’s fictionalised account of the group. The performance became a lasting part of his public image. Vicious died in New York in February 1979, aged 21; photographs, recordings and films continued to circulate his brief and turbulent career.