John Lydon's handwritten lyrics to the iconic Sex Pistols songs "Holidays in the Sun" and "Submission" are set to go under the hammer, with RR Auction estimating a minimum sale price of $80,000. The lyrics, penned in green ink on a single sheet of paper, feature crossed-out words and the added line "a cheap holiday in other people's misery" in pencil.
As of now, the highest bid stands at $30,800, with the auction closing on November 21. The document comes with a certificate of authenticity and a signed letter of provenance from music journalist Jon Savage, who acquired it during his research for the 1991 book, England's Dreaming.
Previously displayed at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame from 1996 to 2000, the lyrics have also been featured in exhibitions in London and Manchester. The Sex Pistols have been inactive since their 2008 European festival tour, and tensions among band members have escalated, particularly following Lydon's lawsuit against them over the use of their music in the FX miniseries Pistol.
While Lydon prepares for a summer tour with his band Public Image Ltd, his former bandmates have formed a new group, performing as Frank Carter and Sex Pistols. The auction is part of RR Auction's Marvels of Modern Music event, which showcases over 400 items, including a signed copy of With The Beatles and Prince's custom Cloud guitar.