Sex Pistols (1977)
“God Save the Queen” by the Sex Pistols expresses a critical view of the British monarchy and societal issues, reflecting feelings of disillusionment and frustration. The song’s lyrics equate the monarchy with a “fascist regime” and convey a sense of hopelessness about the future in England.
“You don’t write God Save the Queen because you hate the English race. You write a song like that because you love them and you’re fed up with them being mistreated.”
– Johnny Rotten (2000)
Sex Pistols were a reaction. Britain was in a recession. There was a garbage collector strike and a labor union strike. Inflation and unemployment were high. The government seemed to show no compassion for the working class. The idea of finishing school and being thrown into the mess that was England in 1975 made Rotten feel hopeless. The meaning behind “God Save the Queen” is solidarity with the working class rather than purely shock and protest. However, it achieved both.
