Glen Matlock: Reclaiming His Story in 'I Was a Teenage Sex Pistol' (#254)

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. 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. 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. Explore the complete XS Noize Podcast archive here