The Sex Pistols and EMI: How a Major Label Turned a Punk Mess into Global Chaos

This episode unpacks the whirlwind of the Sex Pistols’ brief but seismic relationship with EMI in 1977—examining the signing process, the explosive release of “Never Mind the Bollocks,” the censorship backlash over “God Save the Queen,” the tour logistics and backstage drama, and the label’s ultimate termination of the deal. We look at how EMI’s involvement reshaped British punk’s public image, altered its underground infrastructure, and sparked lasting debates about commerce versus authenticity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices