Naturally, John’s Going to Be Upset
Billy Idol Responds to John Lydon’s Sex Pistols Insults: “Of Course John’s Gonna Be Pissed”
In the chaotic landscape of punk rock history, a familiar tension has reignited between Billy Idol and John Lydon (a.k.a. Johnny Rotten), as Lydon lashes out against the current incarnation of the Sex Pistols, which features frontman Frank Carter. The jabs come as the Pistols embark on a new chapter of their storied legacy, one that has since evolved and split from its original blueprint, leaving Lydon visibly irked.
In a pointed interview earlier this year, Lydon derided the Sex Pistols Featuring Frank Carter as nothing more than a karaoke experience, reflecting a distinct disapproval of the band’s decision to tour without him. “I gave them the image. I was the frontman,” Lydon asserted. “I’m the voice, what made the whole world sing. And now you’re going out, as they did the year before with Billy Idol. It’s just karaoke, really.” His remarks drew attention from fans and critics alike, as the punk icon continues to carry a flag of authenticity.
Idol, fresh from a vibrant stint as part of the supergroup Generation Sex with former Sex Pistols members Steve Jones and Paul Cook, reflected on Lydon’s statements during a recent chat with Heavy Consequence. “Well, I think it’s fantastic that Jonesy, Cookie, and Glen wanna play,” he replied with characteristic charm and clarity. “Johnny doesn’t wanna do it. He wants to do [his band] Public Image, so I totally understand that. What’s wrong with them finding some guy that they really believe can deliver those songs?”
With a new album, Dream Into It, set for release on April 25, Idol seems less concerned with any feud and more focused on his own musical journey. His experience with the Pistols during the Generation Sex tour gave him insight into the delicate balance of nostalgia and new artistic beginnings. “I think it makes more sense than me doing it, ’cause I’m really Billy Idol already,” he explained. “I’m better off doing my own music. We’ve got this killer album. I won’t be out there just doing retread music.”
His optimism radiates through his words. “I’m gonna be doing some old stuff, but we’re gonna be doing a lot of new stuff on this tour. So for me, I’m really excited about what I’m doing and I’m excited for them that they’ve found someone that they feel can deliver those songs in the way they want them delivered.”
As for Lydon’s fury, Idol doesn’t take it personally. “And of course John’s gonna be pissed. He’s been like this for a while.” He acknowledges Lydon’s fierce individuality and dedication to his own project, Public Image Ltd., all while maintaining his own artistic integrity. “He’s never held back what he truly thinks. So, yeah, it doesn’t bother me. I love him and everything, but I know where I’m going with my music and I’m happy with what I’m doing.”
The tug-of-war for punk authenticity and legacy continues with Idol leading his own path while the Sex Pistols embark on a new tour with Carter. Fans can look forward to catching Idol on his upcoming North American run with Joan Jett, kicking off April 30 in Phoenix, while Sex Pistols Featuring Frank Carter plan to hit the road this fall.
In an era where legacy acts grapple with both nostalgia and reinvention, Idol and Lydon are just two faces navigating the complex waters of punk—each staking their claim while carrying the weight of rock history with them.
As believers in their distinct sound and style, punk fans have a lot to anticipate, with each artist forging ahead in their own rebelliously loud manner.
