Sex Pistols' album cover designer Jamie Reid dies as Glen Matlock leads tributes

09 August 2023 , 19:29

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Artist Jamie Reid who designed infamous covers for Sex Pistols’ albums dies aged 76 (Image: Jamie Reid)

The artist behind the Sex Pistols’ signature logo and album covers has died aged 76.

Artist Jamie Reid became famous for his notable designs including the artwork for the British punk band’s classic 1997 song God Save The Queen featuring a young Elizabeth II with the record title plastered across her eyes and mouth. The designer helped curate the aesthetic of the punk rock era with his approach of using letters cut from newspaper headlines in the style of a ransom note.

Confirming the artist's death, gallerist John Marchant shared news of his death in an Instagram post. The gallery shared a photograph of the artist as they announced: "We sadly announce the passing of Jamie MacGregor Reid January 16 1947 – August 8 2023; artist, iconoclast, anarchist, punk, hippie, rebel and romantic. Jamie leaves behind a beloved daughter, Rowan; a granddaughter, Rose; and an enormous legacy. Universal Majesty, Verity, Love, Infinite."

Artist Jamie Reid has died aged 76 (PA)

The artist designed the Sex Pistols' signature logo and album covers (Jamie Reid)

Born in Croydon, London, in 1947, he went on to study at Croydon Art College where he was involved in a student protest in 1968 alongside artist and impresario, Malcolm McLaren. After leaving the college, he co-founded the political magazine Suburban Press where he developed his style of cut-up graphics and slogans.

In late 1975, McLaren asked him to work with the Sex Pistols and he went on to design a great deal of their artwork. His most known pieces include the cover of their 1977 album Never Mind The Bollocks, Here’s the Sex Pistols, which featured a yellow background with the first half of the album in block capital lettering and the band name in the ransom note style.

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Some of his most notable work is the artwork for the British punk band’s classic 1997 song God Save The Queen (AFP via Getty Images)

On Twitter, former Sex Pistols bassist Glen Matlock wrote: "So sad to hear the news of Jamie Read’s passing away. He was an immense talent, a great guy and will be missed. A privilege to have known him." Jon Savage, a broadcaster who once wrote a book with Reid, wrote a similar tribute on social media: "RIP Jamie Reid, best known as the designer for the classic Sex Pistols era 1976-79. His ability to render complex ideas in eye-catching visuals was their perfect accompaniment."

Jamie Reid has been praised by former Sex Pistols stars after news of his death broke (Redferns)

Reid also designed the artwork for some of the group’s most popular singles including Anarchy In The UK, Pretty Vacant and Holidays In The Sun. The artist also created album covers for bands such as the Afro Celt Sound System and engaged visually with socio-political groups including Occupy, Extinction Rebellion and the Free Pussy Riot movement. He also has pieces in London's Tate Modern and New York's Museum of Modern Art and Houston's Museum of Fine Art.

Niamh Spence