In this episode, #254 of the XS Noize Podcast, Mark Millar is joined by a true architect of punk — Glen Matlock, the original bassist and founding spark of The Sex Pistols.
Glen co-wrote ten of the twelve songs on the band’s legendary 1977 album Never Mind the Bollocks, giving its chaos a melodic backbone that helped define an era. Now, he’s reclaiming his story in the new documentary I Was a Teenage Sex Pistol — a compelling, filmic portrait of the Pistols’ rise told through wry, honest, and often hilarious first-hand accounts.
In this conversation, Glen looks back on the bleak yet electric energy of 1970s Britain, the provocations of Malcolm McLaren and Vivienne Westwood’s SEX shop, Steve Jones’ infamous thieving, and the band’s chaotic search for a frontman that would ultimately change music forever. From bust-ups and fan mania to the tabloid outrage that followed, Glen offers a frank and insightful portrait of a group of misfits who tore down the old order — and the cost that came with it.
“People think I should be bitter, but every time they’ve re-formed, they’ve asked me back. That’s vindication enough.” – Glen Matlock
He also talks about the real story behind I Was a Teenage Sex Pistol, co-writing the songs that built Never Mind the Bollocks, the truth about his split from the Sex Pistols, the spirit of early punk culture, fashion and rebellion, and the life lessons learned from one of rock’s great survivors.
Hear Glen Matlock reflect on the chaos, the craft, the myth — and the man behind it all. Listen to the full conversation below:
Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Podcasts | YouTube
I Was a Teenage Sex Pistol — Screenings & Festival
Following its Irish premiere on 20 October at Dublin’s Lighthouse Cinema, I Was a Teenage Sex Pistol has continued its festival journey as part of the Doc’n Roll Film Festival 2025 — the UK’s leading celebration of music on screen.
The documentary also featured a packed screening and lively Q&A at London’s Barbican Cinema on 23 October with Glen Matlock and the film’s directors in attendance. Its final London showing takes place at the Hackney Picturehouse on 30 October, where Glen will appear in person for another live discussion.
Dubbed “the Glastonbury of music movie fests” by Time Out and praised by Forbes for building a “loyal, like-minded community of viewers,” Doc’n Roll’s 12th edition showcases artists who refuse to bend, break, or conform — making it the perfect platform for Matlock’s wry and rebellious cinematic memoir.
Tickets & Info: docnrollfestival.com/films
“I Was a Teenage Sex Pistol” screens across the UK this autumn as part of Doc’n Roll 2025 — a fitting stage for one of punk’s original storytellers.
About The XS Noize Podcast
With over 250 episodes to its name, the XS Noize Podcast has become a trusted home for music’s legends and trailblazers — a space where real conversations meet real stories. Hosted by Mark Millar, the show has welcomed an extraordinary lineup including Miles Kane, Matt Berninger, Saint Etienne, D:Ream, Gavin Rossdale, The Farm, Snow Patrol, John Lydon, Will Sergeant, Ocean Colour Scene, Gary Kemp, Doves, Gavin Friday, David Gray, Anton Newcombe, Peter Hook, Razorlight, Sananda Maitreya, James, Crowded House, Elbow, Cast, Kula Shaker, Shed Seven, Future Islands, Peter Frampton, Bernard Butler, Steven Wilson, Travis, New Order, The Killers, Tito Jackson, Simple Minds, The Divine Comedy, Shaun Ryder, Gary Numan, Sleaford Mods, and Michael Head — among many more.
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