“‘Karaoke!’ John Lydon Criticizes Sex Pistols and Frank Carter”

      John Lydon has expressed his disdain for the recent live performances by Frank Carter and the Sex Pistols.

      The punk band – featuring Steve Cook, Paul Jones, and Glen Matlock – has recently reunited, with Frank Carter taking on the vocals. After three nights of exhilarating shows at West London’s Bush Hall, the energetic performances have quickly become legendary.

      At the time, CLASH commented:

      The Sex Pistols were famously known for attracting religious protestors to their concerts, encouraging fans to stay away (Wales, 1976). However, Carter has managed to maintain that rebellious spirit—this time, even those former protestors might find themselves lining up for the next show. While they may not buy a t-shirt, they will certainly purchase a ticket. The Sex Pistols are definitely back.

      Recognized as one of our top live performances of 2024, Frank Carter and the Sex Pistols proceeded to sell out London’s O2 Forum Kentish Town and will perform at the Royal Albert Hall in March in support of the Teenage Cancer Trust.

      One individual is less than pleased: former Sex Pistols frontman John Lydon.

      The artist formerly known as Johnny Rotten stated that the shows have “pissed [him] off” and described Frank Carter’s performances as “karaoke.”

      In a conversation with the i Paper, John Lydon remarked: “When I first learned that the Sex Pistols were touring this year without me, it really pissed me off. It annoyed me. I thought, ‘They’re definitely going to destroy everything good about the Pistols by stripping away the point and purpose of it all.’ I didn’t write those words lightly.”

      “They’re attempting to trivialize the entire show to get away with karaoke, but over time, it’ll be clear who has true value and who doesn’t. I’ve never compromised my integrity for profit. It’s the Catholic in me – that guilt I can’t ignore.”

      Additionally, the PiL singer shared with Classic Album Review: “I wrote the damn songs, didn’t I? I created the image. I was the frontman. I am the voice that made the whole world sing. And now you’re going out, just like last year with Billy Idol. It’s really just karaoke.”

      The Sex Pistols featuring Frank Carter will perform at London’s Royal Albert Hall on March 24th.

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