Rare 1970s Photos and Early History of Sid Vicious Before the Sex Pistols

John Simon Ritchie, better known as Sid Vicious, was an influential figure in London’s early punk scene during the 1970s, known more for his rebellious attitude and distinctive appearance than musical talent. Born in 1957 and raised in a difficult, unstable environment, Ritchie met John Lydon (Johnny Rotten) in 1973 while studying at Hackney Technical College. They became part of a social circle called The Four Johns, which also included John Wardle (Jah Wobble) and John Grey. The group spent much of their time squatting and socializing at Malcolm McLaren and Vivienne Westwood’s shop, SEX. Sid’s infamous stage name originated from an incident involving Lydon’s hamster named Sid, which bit Ritchie, leading him to exclaim, ‘Sid is really vicious!’ Despite limited musical ability, Sid participated in early punk bands like The Flowers of Romance and briefly drummed for Siouxsie and the Banshees. Known for his unpredictability, he reportedly invented the pogo dance as a way to push through crowds, and a notorious incident involving a thrown glass further cemented his ‘vicious’ persona. When Sex Pistols bassist Glen Matlock departed in 1977, Sid joined the band more for his attitude and visual appeal than his bass skills, becoming an iconic symbol of punk rebellion.