Steve Jones Explains Why John Lydon Wasn’t Asked to Rejoin Sex Pistols

The recent developments surrounding the Sex Pistols highlight the complex dynamics between its members, particularly between guitarist Steve Jones and former frontman John Lydon, also known as Johnny Rotten. Jones has now addressed the elephant in the room, stating that it “wasn’t worth asking” Lydon to join the reunion, given their estrangement and past legal disputes. This decision comes as no surprise to those familiar with the tumultuous history between Jones and Lydon, marked by a lawsuit over the use of the band’s music in Danny Boyle’s 2022 miniseries, Pistol.

With Frank Carter stepping in as the lead vocalist, the band is set to perform at iconic venues and festivals, including Download Festival and a show at the Royal Albert Hall. However, Lydon has not been  shy about expressing his discontent with the reunion’s direction. He has dismissed the new performances as “karaoke”, questioning the band’s artistic integrity without him. Lydon argues that the reunion lacks the original spirit and message of the Sex Pistols, claiming that his former bandmates are attempting to trivialize what they had accomplished together.

Jones, in multiple interviews, emphasized that he has not spoken to Lydon since 2008. He admitted that their relationship, once vibrant and life-changing in their youthful days, has since run its course. Despite this, Jones wishes Lydon well, recognizing that Lydon’s life has faced significant personal challenges, including the loss of his wife, Nora Forster, and his close friend and manager, John “Rambo” Stevens.

With Frank Carter stepping in as the lead vocalist, the band is set to perform at iconic venues and festivals, including Download Festival and a show at the Royal Albert Hall. However, Lydon has not been  shy about expressing his discontent with the reunion’s direction. He has dismissed the new performances as “karaoke”, questioning the band’s artistic integrity without him. Lydon argues that the reunion lacks the original spirit and message of the Sex Pistols, claiming that his former bandmates are attempting to trivialize what they had accomplished together.

However, the criticisms have done little to dampen the spirits of Jones and the rest of the band. Jones has openly stated that performing with Frank Carter is both fulfilling and fun for him. The guitarist appreciates that Carter is not trying to imitate Lydon, which allows for the band to continue its legacy on a different path. Despite the ongoing tension, both parties seem determined to pursue their respective musical journeys. Lydon continues his involvement with Public Image Limited (PiL), maintaining an active presence in the music scene, albeit separate from his former bandmates.