Sex Pistols Announce 'Anarchy in the UK' Tour Celebrating 50 Years of Punk
The Sex Pistols, the iconic punk rock band that revolutionised music in the 1970s, have revealed plans for a major UK and Ireland tour this December. Dubbed 'The Anarchy In The UK' tour, this celebratory series of concerts marks a significant milestone: fifty years since the release of their seminal track that gave the tour its name.
Tour Details and Lineup
The legendary group will be joined by musician Frank Carter, known for his work with Gallows and Frank Carter and The Rattlesnakes, who will handle vocal duties. The band's core lineup for this December run will feature original members guitarist Steve Jones, drummer Paul Cook, and bassist Glen Matlock.
The tour kicks off at Dublin's 3 Arena on 7 December, before moving to Edinburgh's Corn Exchange on 9 December and Glasgow's O2 Academy on 10 December. The final leg includes two highly anticipated London dates: O2 Academy Brixton on 18 December and the Eventim Apollo on 20 December.
Historical Context and Recent Reunions
The Sex Pistols originally disbanded in 1978, with frontman John Lydon (also known as Johnny Rotten) going on to form Public Image Ltd (PiL). The band were notorious for their rebel spirit and provocative lyrics that challenged the monarchy and established political order, most famously in songs like "God Save The Queen" and "Anarchy In The UK."
After reuniting in 2025 for several gigs without Lydon's participation, the band continues their revival. Lydon has publicly stated he would never return to the group, following a high-profile court battle where he attempted to prevent their songs from being used in a Disney+ series about their story called Pistol.
Summer Shows and Band Reflections
In addition to the December tour, the Sex Pistols will perform several shows this summer, including appearances at The Piece Hall in Halifax on 11 July, Castlefield Bowl in Manchester on 11 July, Cardiff Castle on 1 August, and Scarborough Open Air Theatre on 2 August.
Reflecting on the band's early days, drummer Paul Cook shared: "It was kind of like a commando raid. I don't even think a lot of places knew we were playing there. We just turned up and set up. It was all a learning curve for us, getting out there and playing live, we were learning on the job."
Cook added about their iconic track: "With 'Anarchy', I think we tapped into a feeling of unrest around the country at the time. The message was pretty simple – just have a go and get out there and do whatever you want to do. It was a new world."
Regarding their current performances with Frank Carter, Cook expressed enthusiasm: "We've had a blast. People want to come and see us play live. If I must say so myself, we are a great live band."
This tour represents not just a celebration of five decades of punk music, but a testament to the enduring legacy of a band that continues to captivate audiences with their raw energy and rebellious spirit.
