Glen Matlock Gives Comments On Keith Richards’ Detachment To Reality

The iconic Keith Richards, guitarist and co-founder of the Rolling Stones, has always been known for his larger-than-life persona and rock and roll lifestyle. But in a recent interview, his detachment from every day realities raised eyebrows.

When asked about the price of milk, Richards admitted he had no clue. This sparked various reactions, including one from fellow musician Glen Matlock, the original bassist of the Sex Pistols.

Matlock, in a conversation with Ultimate Classic Rock, offered his perspective on Richards’ seemingly aloof attitude. He acknowledged that the rock and roll lifestyle can create a certain distance from everyday concerns.

 

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Understanding Keef’s detachment from reality

In the said UCR interview, Matlock shared a humorous anecdote involving Keith Richards. When asked how his life might have been different if he hadn’t grown up working-class, Matlock recalled a famous quote from Richards.

The quote involved Richards being asked the seemingly mundane question: “How much is a pint of milk?” His response, a playful “Well, hell, I don’t know, man, I’ve been a rockstar all my life,” resonated deeply with Matlock. He explains that, like Richards, his life has revolved around his musical career, creating a certain distance from everyday concerns.

Matlock further reflects on how his upbringing and subsequent career path have shaped his perspective. He acknowledges that he can’t truly imagine a different life, as his experiences have deeply ingrained a certain way of being within him.

This anecdote, along with Matlock’s thoughtful reflection, highlights the unique realities and perspectives that can come with a life dedicated to music and stardom.

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“I have certainly been in the right place at the right time”

While reminiscing about his career in the same chat, Matlock acknowledged the important role of chance in his journey. He vividly recalls a pivotal moment that led him to join the band, describing it as a “sliding doors” kind of situation.

On a whim, Matlock decided to visit Malcolm McLaren’s boutique on King’s Road, a shop he had never been to before. This seemingly insignificant decision, fueled by a “gut reaction,” placed him in the right place at the right time. He connected with McLaren, who was then forming the Sex Pistols, and the rest, as they say, is punk rock history.

Matlock reflects on the power of taking small risks and trusting intuition. By venturing outside his usual routine and exploring something new, he opened the door to an extraordinary opportunity. 

“I have certainly been in the right place at the right time. Sometimes you put yourself in the right place at the right time by taking a tiny little gamble,” the bassist shared.

From early chaos to punk legacy

In a 2023 BBC interview, Glen Matlock shared the not-so-smooth ride of the Sex Pistols during their formative years. Securing rehearsal space was a constant battle, and their music was raw and chaotic, yet undeniably thrilling.

But amidst the chaos, a sense of community blossomed. Being part of London’s vibrant punk scene was more than just music; it was a shared identity and a rebellion against the status quo.

Matlock also acknowledged the band’s own awareness of their groundbreaking potential. Figures like McLaren fueled this fire, pushing them to challenge musical boundaries and societal norms. The Sex Pistols knew they were different, and they embraced that difference with defiant energy.

This awareness of their impact and the whirlwind experiences that followed form a central theme in Matlock’s latest memoir, Triggers: A Life in Music. The book dives deeper into this pivotal period, offering a personal and insightful look into the band’s journey, struggles, and triumphs.