The Sex Pistols

Pretty Vacant: Sex Pistols on the Beeb!

Yes. I was there. Probably the best gig of my life - and I've been to a fair few. I was at the evening show. I only got the ticket because a friend's mother wouldn't let him go - it being Xmas day and all - so I  gave him a Genesis Live album for his ticket.  Pretty good trade methinks!

Hard for people to picture today what a nasty, narrow little country this was back in 1977 and what a threat to all that was moral and 'normal' Punk appeared to be.  There was a real tension on the way in to the gig - police lining the streets - no doubt some of them anticipating a jolly opportunity to beat on the perceived new degenerates. There was a tangible sense of siege mentality at that time because of the national and parental approbation. New folk devils.

Ivanhoes: Venue for the legendary gig!

I was 19, trying to look cool in my brother's leather jacket.

I have memories after the gig of chatting to Paul Cook who didn't seem to appreciate the significance of it all - he was just a drummer having fun - and to Steve Jones who was more interested in indulging in the usual rock pleasantries - fawning women and free booze.

I also spoke to Malcolm Mclaren - who couldn't do enough for us - I asked him for a ticket as a memento - which he dutifully ran off and found for me.  All very civilised.

The best part was the closing couple of numbers, when we invaded the stage.  I was on the same mic as John Lydon, screaming "God Save the Queen, it's a Fascist regime", over and over again - the only lyrics I could remember at the time.

It was a long time before I could listen to those prog rock albums again..!