Sex Pistols Net Worth: Who is the Richest Member?
The Sex Pistols were an English punk rock band that formed in London in 1975. The band was considered one of the most influential and controversial bands in the history of music. They sparked the punk movement in the UK and challenged the social and political norms of their time. But what is Sex Pistols net worth?
The band’s original members were Johnny Rotten (vocalist), Steve Jones (guitarist), Paul Cook (drummer), and Glen Matlock (bassist), who was later replaced by Sid Vicious in 1977. The band released only one studio album, Never Mind the Bollocks, Here’s the Sex Pistols. It reached number one on the UK charts and sold over two million copies worldwide.
The band broke up in 1978, after a turbulent tour in the US and a series of legal disputes with their manager Malcolm McLaren. They reunited for a few occasions in the 1990s and 2000s, but their legacy and influence remain strong to this day.
How Much Did the Sex Pistols Earn?
The Sex Pistols were not very wealthy during their short career. They were often cheated and exploited by their manager and record labels. They also faced censorship and boycotts from the media and the public, which limited their exposure and sales.
The surviving members contribute to the band’s estimated 2024 net worth of around $8 million, combining their individual financial standings. However, this figure may not reflect the actual earnings and assets of the band. It does not account for the royalties, lawsuits, taxes, and expenses that they have incurred over the years.
Who is the Richest Member of the Sex Pistols?
Steve Jones Net Worth: $12.5 Million
The richest member of the Sex Pistols is Steve Jones, who has a net worth of $12.5 million as of 2024. Jones is the guitarist and founding member of the band, and he also co-wrote most of their songs.
After the band’s breakup, Jones pursued a solo career and worked with various artists, such as Iggy Pop, Bob Dylan, and Thin Lizzy. He also became a successful radio DJ in Los Angeles, hosting his own show Jonesy’s Jukebox since 2004.
John Lydon Net Worth: $500K
The second richest member is John Lydon, also known as Johnny Rotten, who has a net worth of $500,000 as of 2024. Lydon is the lead singer and the most iconic figure of the band, known for his rebellious and outspoken personality.
After leaving the Sex Pistols, Lydon formed another influential band, Public Image Ltd (PiL), which experimented with various genres and styles. He also released some solo albums and appeared on several TV shows, such as I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! and The Masked Singer.
Paul Cook Net Worth: $500K
The third richest member is Paul Cook, who has a net worth of $500,000 as of 2024.
Cook is the drummer and co-founder of the band. He also collaborated with Jones on several projects after the band’s split, such as The Professionals and The Greedies. He also played with other bands, such as Man Raze and Hollywood Vampires.
Glen Matlock Net Worth: $400K
The fourth richest member is Glen Matlock, who has a net worth of $400,000 as of 2024. The band fired Matlock, the original bassist and songwriter, in 1977 and replaced him with Sid Vicious.
He later rejoined the band for their reunions and tours. He also formed his own band, Rich Kids, and played with other artists, such as Iggy Pop, The Faces, and The Damned.
Sid Vicious Net Worth: $0
The fifth and last member is Sid Vicious, who had a net worth of $0 at the time of his death in 1979. Vicious was the bassist and the most notorious member of the band. He joined in 1977 as a replacement for Matlock.
He was known for his violent and self-destructive behavior, as well as his relationship with his girlfriend Nancy Spungen. She was found stabbed to death in their hotel room in 1978. Authorities arrested and charged Vicious with her murder, but he died of a heroin overdose before the trial. He had no assets or income, and he left behind a large debt to his manager.
The Bottom Line
The Sex Pistols were a legendary band that changed the course of music and culture. They did not make much money from their fame and success.
Other bands of their stature and influence surpass them in net worth, and the members’ financial standings vary significantly. The richest member is Steve Jones, followed by John Lydon, Paul Cook, Glen Matlock, and Sid Vicious.