The Thinking Machine Show

God Save the Boy Band: How Malcolm McLaren Created the One Direction of Punk


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Colorful mohawks, safety pins and an anti-establishment attitude: the Sex Pistols are the epitome of British punk rock... or are they?


In this episode, we explore the controversial theory that Johnny Rotten's band was a boy band ante litteram.

From the meticulous selection of members for their looks rather than their musical talent, to Malcolm McLaren's ironclad management and their scandal-driven marketing strategies, we discover how the punk 'rebels' share surprising parallels with modern boy bands.


A journey behind the scenes of the band that made rebellion its trademark, examining how their anarchy was carefully orchestrated to maximise their commercial impact.

A provocative look at authenticity, media manipulation and the fine line between genuine rebellion and manufactured rebellion in the music industry.

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The Thinking Machine ShowBy Alessio Piovesan