Sex Pistols bassist Glen Matlock has expressed confusion over the growing number of punk musicians who publicly support Donald Trump, describing the trend as “weird.” At the same time, he offered measured praise for Irish hip-hop group Kneecap, highlighting their willingness to engage openly with political issues through their music and public statements.
Matlock’s comments sharply contrast with the views of his former bandmate John Lydon, also known as Johnny Rotten. While Lydon has spoken favorably about Trump and strongly criticized Kneecap for their outspoken political messaging, Matlock appears to remain aligned with punk’s original anti-authoritarian roots, which he says are often misunderstood today.
Speaking during an interview on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Matlock reflected on the political climate of the 1970s and how it shaped the Sex Pistols’ outlook. He explained that the band emerged during a period marked by social tension and the rise of far-right ideologies, adding that their goal was to challenge authority, provoke thought, and inject humor into the chaos rather than promote any rigid ideology.
The bassist went on to suggest that punk has evolved into something far broader than its original form, both musically and culturally. While he acknowledged the genre’s expansion across styles and scenes, Matlock also noted that some artists and fans may have misinterpreted its core message. He admitted to being repeatedly surprised by the number of self-identified punks he encounters online who openly back Trump, a stance he finds difficult to reconcile with punk’s rebellious ethos.
When asked about the state of confrontational or rebellious music today, Matlock criticized the music industry for filtering out voices that challenge the status quo. Despite this, he pointed to Kneecap as a rare exception, noting that regardless of personal opinions about the group, their willingness to push boundaries and provoke debate keeps the spirit of resistance alive. Kneecap later acknowledged Matlock’s remarks positively, while Lydon has continued to publicly denounce the group, underscoring the ongoing divide between former Sex Pistols members.
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