"Anarchy in the UK" (B-side "I Wanna Be Me") was the first single by the punk band the Sex Pistols. It was released on November 26, 1976, and is often said to be the "first punk single". However, The Ramones delivered "Blitzkrieg Bop" a year earlier, The Saints released "(I'm) Stranded" in September, and The Damned put out "New Rose" in October. But Anarchy in the UK's influence is undeniable and with it the Sex Pistols may be said to have solidified the punk sound and broadened the popularity of the genre.
The song's lyrics espouse a nihilistic, emotive, and violent concept of anarchy. The lyrics are however often viewed as somewhat satirical and light hearted. The lyrics mention several political/paramilitary organisations prominent at the time, comparing them to the UK: the MPLA, the UDA, and the IRA. The lyrics can be interpreted as satirical, mocking not only the government but also directionless or purely fashionable rebellion.
