5 Albums Steve Jones of the Sex Pistols Can’t Live Without

Steve Jones reveals the five albums that shaped his musical world and continue to inspire his legendary punk spirit.

If you’ve ever been fascinated by the raw energy of punk rock, you’ve probably crossed paths with Steve Jones, the iconic Sex Pistols guitarist. But beyond the snarling riffs and rebellious anthems, Steve’s musical roots stretch deep into classic rock, glam, and pop. Let’s dive into the five albums that have been his lifelines — the ones he simply can’t live without.

Meet Steve Jones: Punk’s Guitar Rebel

Before we jump into his top albums, a quick snapshot of Steve himself. Most famously known for that unforgettable moment swearing on the Bill Grundy Show back in 1976, Steve now calls London home. He’s currently buzzing with excitement about a tour swinging through Europe, South America, and the US, promising punk mayhem from Dallas to all corners of America.

He’s got a taste for catchy tunes — but not just any catchy. His playlist leans toward songs that hook into your brain and refuse to let go. His recent musical crush? The Arctic Monkeys’ latest album, The Car. And, if that wasn’t diverse enough, he’s also got a soft spot for ’70s reggae gems like The Harry J All Stars’ “Liquidator.”

Streaming has replaced his old record collection; The appeal of vinyl’s warmth is real, he says, but in his busy life, convenience wins every time.

1. Every Picture Tells a Story – Rod Stewart

Steve’s journey begins with Every Picture Tells a Story by Rod Stewart — an album that burned bright during his youth. Picture a young Steve roaming Oxford Street, snagging the record because the cover caught his eye. Little did he know, this would become a soundtrack to his formative years.

“Maggie May” and the title track hooked him instantly. And when the album skyrocketed to number one on both sides of the Atlantic, Steve felt vindicated — “I must know what I’m doing then,” he chuckles. More than just the songs, it was Rod’s voice, his hair, his style, and the Faces — the band he played in alongside Ronnie Wood — that enthralled the future punk icon.

2. The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars – David Bowie

Next up, the glam-rock god himself: David Bowie. Steve was enchanted by Bowie’s early glam era — the glitter, the daring fashion, and that otherworldly voice. The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars wasn’t just an album; it was a whole new world. Steve caught a few of Bowie’s live shows and admired the band behind the icon — Mick Ronson’s soaring guitar, Woody Woodmansey’s pounding drums, and Trevor Bolder’s bass.

This album was more than inspiration; it was a gateway into glam’s vivid universe, where style met edge. Steve contrasts Bowie’s authentic avant-garde vibe with other glam acts of the time, who felt a bit more manufactured and “Top of the Pops” ready. Bowie set the bar high, and Steve was more than happy to follow.

3. For Your Pleasure – Roxy Music

Moving on to another glam pioneer, Steve points to Roxy Music’s second effort, For Your Pleasure. Produced by Chris Spedding, who also had a hand in Never Mind the Bollocks, this album captured Steve’s attention thanks to its fashion-forward aesthetic and artful chaos.

Steve fondly remembers the days of LPs that opened up to reveal band members’ photos — a tactile, visual experience that streaming just can’t replicate. The album’s moody synths, courtesy of Brian Eno, added layers of drama to classics like “Do the Strand” and “In Every Dream Home a Heartache.”

As a teenager, Steve would lie back and let the album’s imagery wash over him — a perfect blend of sound and style that fueled his imagination.

4. 50 Big Ones – The Beach Boys

Who would’ve pegged a punk rocker to love The Beach Boys? But Steve’s affection for their greatest hits compilation, 50 Big Ones, reveals his ear for irresistibly catchy tunes. He admits the pop sensibility in their music is just too good to ignore.

From Brian Wilson’s innovative touches to Carl Wilson’s smooth vocals on tracks like “I Can Hear Music,” the band’s infectious melodies provide a perfect soundtrack for any mood. Steve appreciates the pure pop craft behind their tunes — and honestly, who can resist that California sunshine vibe?

5. Anything by Steely Dan

Rounding out his list is the sophisticated, studio-polished sound of Steely Dan. Steve doesn’t single out one album or song because their work is so consistently meticulous.

He’s a playlist fan, letting all their albums flow seamlessly on Apple Music. What impresses him most is the level of craftsmanship — the duo’s use of session musicians, their refusal to tour, and their laser focus on recording perfection.

Steely Dan’s music is subtle pop brilliance, layered with complexity and polish, and Steve respects how deeply they put their heart into each record.

“I was obsessed with Rod Stewart when I was a teenager. I liked his hair, the fashion, his voice.” — Steve Jones

Why These Albums Matter

Steve’s picks tell a vivid story of a music lover who’s absorbed everything from the raw grit of punk to the lush textures of glam and polished pop. These albums aren’t just records to him — they’re touchstones, each representing a piece of the soundtrack that shaped his identity.

Whether it’s the rebellious swagger of Rod Stewart, the glam sophistication of Bowie and Roxy Music, the sun-soaked hooks of The Beach Boys, or the immaculate craft of Steely Dan, these albums remind us why music never stops influencing us.

FAQs About Steve Jones’s Favorite Albums

• Which Rod Stewart album was crucial for Steve Jones?
  Every Picture Tells a Story was the album that captured his teenage imagination and introduced him to Stewart’s iconic voice.
• What about David Bowie’s influence?
  Steve connects deeply with The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars, especially loving the glam aesthetic and the band behind Bowie.
• Why is ‘For Your Pleasure’ by Roxy Music special to Steve?
  It combines stylish visuals with chaotic yet brilliant music, and it was produced by Chris Spedding, who also worked on punk classics.
• Does Steve Jones like pop music?
  Absolutely. He admires catchy tunes, as seen in his love for The Beach Boys’ greatest hits and Steely Dan’s craftsmanship.
• How does Steve listen to music today?
  Streaming is his go-to format now, favoring instant access on his phone over carrying physical albums.

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