Sex Pistols' 'Johnny Rotten' John Lydon gets BMI honour

Award given to songwriters who have had 'a unique and indelible influence on generations of music makers'

John Lydon has had “a unique and indelible influence on generations of music makers” (PA)

Punk pioneer John Lydon is to be honoured for his contribution to music at a respected music industry awards bash later this year - following figures such as Bryan Ferry and Ray Davies.

The Sex Pistols frontman, known in his early of days of fame as Johnny Rotten, will receive the Icon Award at the BMI London Awards in October.

The award is given to songwriters who have had “a unique and indelible influence on generations of music makers”.

The 57-year-old caused a furore when the band swore on TV in 1976 and the group caused further upset when it provocatively released its anthem God Save The Queen around the Queen's Silver Jubilee the following year, scoring a number two hit.

He went on to quit the band after a disastrous US tour and formed Public Image Ltd with whom he is still touring after reforming the band in the past few years.

He was once considered an enfant terrible of the music business but he went on present wildlife shows, take part in I'm A Celebrity ... Get Me Out Of Here! and star in a TV ad for butter.

Del Bryant, the president of BMI, said: “John Lydon is a true icon whose influence on music, fashion and art has been felt around the world. We are very pleased to recognise his impact on popular culture and his outstanding musical contributions with the BMI Icon Award.”

The gala dinner will be staged on Tuesday, October 15, at London's Dorchester Hotel in Park Lane.

PA