Simon John Ritchie, named Sid Vicious by John Lydon, began his musical career in 1976 as a member of The Flowers of Romance with The Clash’s Keith Levene and performed with Siouxsie and the Banshees at their first ever gig. Vicious joined the Sex Pistols, replacing original bassist Glen Matlock, first performing with them in April 1977; his debut appears in the film ‘Punk Rock Movie’. The Sex Pistols had been created by Malcolm McLaren in 1975 and the band became a leading force in punk music playing fast paced short songs, expressing angst and frustration about the social and political conditions of the time. Vicious gained notoriety for his edgy persona, embracing the punk spirit of anarchy and rebellion.
Later in 1977, Vicious met American groupie Nancy Spungen and they quickly became a couple; famously known for their violent and tumultuous relationship. In 1978 Spungen accompanied the Sex Pistols on their brief tour of the United States; soon after the band split. With Spungen acting as his manager, Vicious embarked on a solo career. He performed with a number of famous musicians including Mick Jones of The Clash and original Sex Pistols bassist Glen Matlock. Many of his performances were at Max’s Kansas City; the famous New York City nightclub. Nancy died in 1978 under tragic circumstances with Vicious passing away only a year later. Their twisted love affair was the inspiration for the 1986 film 'Sid and Nancy', starring Gary Oldman as Vicious.