John Lydon: 'Russell Brand's revolution is idiotic'

Former Sex Pistol John Lydon, aka Johnny Rotten, tells Polly Toynbee that comedian Russell Brand's call for people not to vote is ignorant, flippant and liable to 'make you all homeless'.
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Lydon also explains why he'd never vote Conservative, labels Ukip 'morons' and calls anarchy a 'mind game for the middle classes'
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#JohnLydon #JohnnyRotten #RussellBrand #SexPistols #Ukip

[@craigoshea8948]

"Without education you're going to be the stupid of the future " Love this man!

[@catscan2022]

And with education most people are just going to be left with a mountain of debt

[@laurendaryani4893]

@@jbertucci Maybe your parents and you were/are able to afford a private education but not everyone can. Valuing educators in the public sector could help to correct for lower-quality applicants, for one thing

[@DarthCovider]

There’s a difference between education and government education.

[@emmaduncan2991]

This is the great thing about Lydon, if you ask him a question, he's going to answer it, he doesn't care how it sounds, or if you think the opposite, you ask his opinion, he will give it to you, I don't think the man would tell a lie, to save his life.

[@fdfsdfsvsfgsg4888]

+emma duncan yes. I suspect you may be the only person in this conversation smart enough to understand the man.

[@paddy7812]

+emma duncan Well said.

[@emmaduncan2991]

+Jaime Peters I also respect him as an artist, Here's a guy who has made great records and has made some pretty bad records, but he has never made the same record twice, which is something not a lot of artists can claim.

[@emmaduncan2991]

+Matt Rayner As far as I'm concerned, he helped give rock & roll, a much needed swift kick in it's fat complacent ass, and for that, I will be forever grateful.

[@matthewlacey5307]

+emma duncan I like John and am a big Pistols and PIL fan but he does not represent the view of the other band members and is a classic champagne socialist - irony. Living in LA, a property landord, etc etc He may still hate toffs and 'the system' but his filthy lucre tours etc show that he hasn't an alternative as an answer and capitalism has worked for him in the end. Other places on earth may be better (???? - please specify) but until then - long live the queen and Country Life butter and J Lydon etc

[@cameron1975williams]

"My advice, always, to any member of the working class; get smart, read as much as you can and find out who's using you." - The wisest thing you'll her today.

[@paulbirkbeck1790]

Sound advice for people of all ages

[@JSTNtheWZRD]

Ridiculous, why don't you just look around and see whats going on around you - beyond the written word - or does your moral compass need remagnetizing

[@dianheffernan3436]

Yeah, but as we've unfortunately have seen,that can get REAL ugly,not even sure where a lot of these words meanings or actions derive from,kinda do, but if you get pushed to shove,it can put you in the middle of toxic thgs,its the infamous dammed if u do dammed if you don't, and however this sounds,I really like people, just got tormented it made me ugly,

[@LeeGee]

@@JSTNtheWZRD He didn't suggest you read to learn morality. Read history, for a start. Learn how others got used up.

[@craigezell4261]

@@JSTNtheWZRD Do both.

[@farje1]

An intelligent man who was banned and demonised because he swore in public. He deserves a great deal of respect.

[@mister3566]

And because he told the BBC about saville

[@mitchconnerandsometimesjlotoo]

@@mister3566 worse. He spoke out about then the BBC banned him.

[@mckenzie125]

would he vote for a sir? dont think so

[@DanFernandesBenficaSaint]

So intelligent he was a smack head. 🤔

[@heyoka9012]

Punk isn't dead: it just goes to bed at a more reasonable hour. 🤘🏻😜

[@spodergibbs5088]

He’s so cringe. He’s an old, frail sook. I could bash him.

[@theoriginaltoadnz]

lmao classic!

[@johnbrooks6217]

punk is dead it has been for forty years this bloke is fraud he shouldn't be given any time on air. he,s a c rate celeb trying his hardest to make a few bob in his old age I pitty him realy.bet he bores his few mates about the good ol days

[@OlviMasta77]

Haha true

[@suez20001]

He is famous for being out spoken. His fortune never came from Pistols or PiL. He got into real estate with Nora. That was his built income. He is a straight shooter, speaks his mind, can't fix stupid

[@stevenmccutcheon2954]

People like John should be cherished. An honest man demonised by the media.

[@amazonionavalon8252]

Well said Steven, thank you for voicing the opinion of myself and countless other supporters of John ❤

[@benmartin8281]

I don't know about Russell Brands political opinions but why would I vote at all. The Tories are greedy self serving elitists and so are Labour. Kier Starmer is part of the trilateral commission, a very sinister organisation.

[@JustKittylicious]

Its crazy how as soon as a person- a woman spoke to him with a little respect hes more than happy to share his views as he should because hes so intelligent. The people coming at him with spikes got spikes back! Love him

[@ricardothorburn4089]

Get smart, read as much as you can, and find out who is using you....

[@felixfedre518]

We found it was Labour.

[@ricardothorburn4089]

@@felixfedre518 presumably you read that in the Sun. Bear in mind that the Tories run most of the media outlets in the UK, and have ruled for 29 years out of the last 40 (and will now rule for another 5), you might like to reconsider your comment.

[@bassinblue]

@@felixfedre518 My conclusion is, it's the banks.

[@joanofarc33]

Ricardo Thorburn So why doesn’t he realize Labour is using him?

[@ricardothorburn4089]

@@joanofarc33 I don't know if Labour is using him or not, and I suspect that you don't know either. But the point he is making is that this is how people should view people in power.

[@MisterCoolbyLaw]

Lydon has never lost his working class identity. He's a treasure as an artist and public intellectual, brutally honest and direct, and truly as fearless as ever.

[@folksurvival]

"public intellectual"

[@chilliecheesecake]

@@folksurvival Do you have an actual opinion to share with us? Cuz you're not fooling anybody with that vaguely patronizing BS

[@folksurvival]

@@chilliecheesecake Strong projection from you there

[@petegregory517]

Have no idea who he is.

[@Johnny-sj9sj]

@@petegregory517 Who are these Beatles?

For all the people that don't understand his character, this is how you to an interview! She is not fake, she genuinely looks interested in the topic and what he has to say about it. He's been asked about very painful things all his life and that's really bad, glad to see someone that treats him like a human being.

[@pulse4503]

bright n well-spoken I must admit...

[@JayJay-ki4mi]

2007 Brand did a friendly interview with Saville. At a point in time Brand was aware of the accusations against Saville. Brand romances a girl still at school. It's all too fishy for me. Bravo John.

[@PeterPumpkinEater75]

I met Savile in 2005 when I was 19 due to my Dad working behind the scenes for the BBC for many years. I was aware of the “allegations” as well but I was friendly with him because he was friendly with me, even gave me a chocolate lol. I get the man was a definite wrongun and the allegations should’ve been taken seriously but to anyone outside of the establishment it was pretty much just rumour. Doesn’t seem fair to use Savile as evidence of brands innocence or guilt. Got to remember the context of that clip too, even when I met him Jimmy was a controversial figure who would say odd things for a reaction, and Russel was you know… on a radio show trying to get publicity 🤷‍♂️

[@johnschober1819]

Love this guy! He doesn't pull any punches,ask him a question and you get a direct answer.

[@oldmate9969]

Exactly, and sadly people aren't like that anymore.

[@DJWESG1]

I always thought he was a Tory

[@bullyinspace]

The way it should be

[@craigezell4261]

@@DJWESG1 If he is,great.

[@craigezell4261]

@@oldmate9969 So true.

[@BrianMax]

"I take drugs and tell not-funny jokes" A perfect description of Russell Brand.

[@chadwickwright2833]

Uhm, he's been sober for many years.

[@ericmay7722]

@@chadwickwright2833 but he's still unfunny

[@chadwickwright2833]

No, just because you don't understand his humor doesn't make him unfunny.

[@chadwickwright2833]

I'm 40 years of age. He's actually extremely intelligent. John Lydon is a fool and a right-wing delusional idiot.

[@Muskateering]

@@chadwickwright2833 lol you div how the hell is he right wing? You didn't watch the video did you?

[@iansmith4924]

This guy is always been spot on, especially with Jimmy Salville!!

[@raphaelrau1728]

John Lyndon is on the button regarding society and the working class. He’s so well read and knowledgable regarding current affairs! In a far too oc world he shouldn’t be sidelined for being honest!

[@Maerahn]

Thank you, Mr John Lydon, for being the voice of reason we need. He seems like the sort of bloke you could have a great conversation with, regardless of whether you agree with everything he says or not. And he's right about voting. If you don't vote, you lose your right to complain about the government that does get in.

[@Slasherhorror1980]

And now Russell Brand has retreated back to his mansion...So much for the revolution.

[@biteyourfriend]

Slasherhorror1980 TREWS is back

[@SleepySeel]

With his on and off gf, the grand-daughter of the fucking Rothschilds. There was never a revolution to begin with he was a sideshow.

[@Isleofskye]

lol

[@swizzleproxi4810]

It wouldn't matter who we vote for they do what is required from the main source....

[@bagiee1]

@Saurchie...then, go out and make your own darn vegetarian meal.

[@Lasher500]

"Anarchists can't get anywhere without motorways". Love this man.

[@alastairandrew9722]

true anarchists don't want motorways, that's the whole idea.

[@oscarquintero2209]

That's the dumbest «argument» people has against anarchism.

[@alastairandrew9722]

@Life as we know it I fully agree. I wasn't defending anarchists, I was simply pointing out Lydon's bad argument.

[@d.j.1112]

Right. The public is too stupid to organize and fund labor for road construction without the coercion of the state.

[@moonskyrocket]

Stupid statement. You can be an anarchist and build a road, a house or anything you put your mind (and others who would like to cooperate) into it.

[@wardis8303]

John is an educated man, very articulate, a joy to listen to, he tells it how it is, he’s realistic and truthful

[@alanbell2156]

But he's also wrong

[@callum9693]

@@alanbell2156 About what? Not necessarily disagreeing with you but he did make multiple separate points in this video

[@rinnypink]

"Punk" is just someone who lives their own life their way while speaking their own truth. They do so without owing anything to anyone! There's nothing nihilist about it. You can be "punk" at any age. I see it as akin to just "thinking for yourself." This guy is the perfect example. Mark my words: You will NEVER hear the phrase, "IF I'm being honest," coming from anyone who is actually doing so.

[@BrianSmith-vl7xu]

I'd like to see Lydon and Brand in a one to one discussion.

[@BrianSmith-vl7xu]

+Clara Going Bye Bye hell yeah. Front row.

[@Cooperman666ROFL]

+Brian Smith And I would pay to see bill gates debating an ostridge.

[@TheSlipperyOtter]

Oooh yes! Lydon would wipe the floor with Brands boney arse.

[@chrisparker728]

+Angela Davis loved the pistols but russell brand would wipe the floor with him.

[@Cooperman666ROFL]

chris parker Nope, hippies, while good at partying, were wrong. I'm surprised some like russell remain. He's basically driven by guilt, he's not studied anything, he generalises and puts other people in the same group as him, while having no idea what politics even refers to.

[@mcgrudo]

"You're demanding to be ignored." - Johnny Rotten circa 2014

[@ballscrusher4]

sounds kinda like voting if you ask me

[@mistervertigo678]

Rather than patronised and lied to.

[@minbannister3625]

Benny Hill was right, "It doesn't matter who you vote for the government always get in"

[@jonathanhadley2555]

min bannister There will always be those behind the scenes pulling the strings

[@blaz3ofglory570]

Jonathan Hadley So, Russell Brand was right all along?

[@jonathanhadley2555]

Blaz3ofGlory Well do you really think that voting makes a difference!

[@blaz3ofglory570]

Jonathan Hadley No! I'm in agreement with Russell Brand!

[@jayblackstone6454]

choose your puppet, red or blue...

[@Jeremiah7-ox2nj]

I adore John. He always puts a smile on my face. Never tire of listening to his wisdom and wit.

[@MrSuperbombastik]

The world owes punk rock a huge debt in that it was able to provide an alternative way for Johnny to channel all of his intellect and disdain for our world; rather than becoming a political figure or actual criminal. He could easily be the villain in a Bond film.

[@optimisticwhovian1726]

Who would've thought Johnny Rotten of all people would be the voice of reason on voting. He speaks the truth, there are people dying for their right to vote in some countries and it disgusts me to see people so flippantly waving their social duty because of pure apathy and a false conviction that "My vote wont make a difference" when its thousands saying that which is making the difference by having governments get in who wouldn't have had these idiots taken things seriously and voted.

[@paulmcgreevy3011]

When those in seeking votes are gangsters they deserve no votes

[@JohnKobaRuddy]

hows that voting going for you now?

[@JackVox]

The wonderful thing about John Lydon is he cuts through the fog and helps you see just a bit more clearly.

[@incredibleXMan]

He's so right. Working class people need to get wise and figure out who is ripping him off.

[@777static777]

It's VERY telling that, within the first minute of this interview, several fallacious ad hominems are thrown about and gleefully accepted.

[@outdoormirrorist3404]

777static777 Someone has to call out Russell Brand. About time.

[@777static777]

Outdoor Mirrorist LOL people "call out" Russell Brand all the time - almost constantly - and usually (just like John Lydon, here) they devolve VERY quickly into logical fallacies (primarily ad hominem). The people who "call out" Brand highlight for everyone just how stupid and ignorant they are.

[@outdoormirrorist3404]

777static777 "The people who "call out" Brand highlight for everyone just how stupid and ignorant they are." I agree. This calling out needs to stop. But then, how would Brand wallow in his masturbatory fantasies about persecution? And more importantly, how would you?

[@trollfinger]

Outdoor Mirrorist Are you mad? Stupid and ignorant? He first says "don't vote", using his influence to make a point. Then endorses Labour...who lost. Then say "who am I? Don't listen to me." Speaks for itself, he hasn't a clue what he's talking about.

[@777static777]

Outdoor Mirrorist That comment makes absolutely no sense. Can you point to a single time where I've "wallowed in masturbatory fantasies about persecution," or are you just talking out of your ass? As for Brand's "masturbatory fantasies about persecution," have you never read a Murdoch newspaper before? (Hell, did you not watch this poor excuse for an interview?)

[@evilronald6566]

Brand is finished anyway. Once Hipster Students turn on you yer fucked. Lydon while not always right, granted, speaks from the heart. Love him or hate him he speaks his mind...Brand will just tell you what you want to hear.

[@iansmith8783]

Never been into pistols but I love John Lydon. He’s like a modern day Oscar Wilde.

[@nell7958]

Ian Smith omg u what ?

[@2-bitsampler841]

That's an elaborate way to call someone gay.

[@dannyz4636]

You might like Public Image Ltd. more

[@MissKrystalKnight]

@@2-bitsampler841 😂

[@adampeters7947]

I don't think so

[@soilentgreen7]

this didn't age well

[@snilloc52]

He's not afraid to speak his truth and he is absolutely right in this regard. VOTE INFORMED!!

[@pattiern]

I like John Lydon. You get no bullshit from him. He's right about the vote. A lot of people sacrificed their lives for the privilege. Yes, I like John Lydon, even though he's an Arsenal fan.

[@speedking7224]

Only gooner I actually like

[@TheTibmeister]

John Lydon has hitherto unsuspected wisdom and common sense. Plus a sense of justice and fair play for the people. Not just some of the people

[@maestrovonhuge9397]

He never fails to answer things straight up and stand by it.

[@channelbizt]

"I stopped listening to Johnny Rotten after he was telling me which butter to eat" - Russel Brand :)

[@bensmith5288]

Weak comeback wasn't it . Russell really is a champagne socialist

[@channelbizt]

@@bensmith5288 No, it was spot on. Johnny Rotten prancing about in his butter advert really made me question the guy, what a clown.

[@bensmith5288]

@@channelbizt we have totally different opinions on things so theres no point us arguing.

[@stevenaustin8274]

I stopped listening to Russel Brand the moment he first opened his mouth

[@demerit5]

Least obnoxious interview I have seen with John Lydon.

[@nathan-ql5vh]

He comes across combative often but I think he knows he is hated for speaking a truth and it pisses him of

[@user-ei9ns9hq6b]

Lydon is just a contrarian. He doesn't stand for anything except being a troll.

[@AlmostReady504]

Absolutely the most civil conversation

[@mrugod]

Because they’re having an important conversation, instead of talking the sex pistols for the umpteenth time.

[@Yapostadodat]

4:26 , "Anarchists can't get anywhere without motorways.". Anarchists are inherently dependent on the systems they protest. Brilliance.

[@tristanreynolds5135]

🤦‍♀️

[@tristanreynolds5135]

Classic example of "only Anarchist for the aesthetic"

[@TheCondorjc]

Anarchists would do it themselves. Given that they aren’t going to sit around and wait for the system.

[@Jordan-ft1jb]

Sorry but that's nonsense. A revolution would not disband everything that came before it nor would it want to. It's more about the process of how these things are built and managed

[@No1Nova]

Anarchism simply seeks to break down power structures where possible.. extremist versions of these ideas paint an unrealistic image..

[@matthewmoggridge5221]

John Lydon is great, full stop. I could listen to his interviews all day. Great guy.

[@loknloll]

There is so much cringe worthy footage of Rotten banging on. But here, when he's in Lydon mode, and it's still early enough in the day that he's articulate, and clear headed, he shows what is really remarkable about his mind, and how intrinsically and passionately British he is. One thing Lydon is notorious for is having absolutely zero patience for an uninformed or ill prepared journalist. Kudos to this woman here, for garnering enough genuine respect from Lydon, to elicit a sincere, thoughtful and profound conversation from this national treasure.

[@fitzfitzchivalry4538]

I love the brooding intensity of your profile pic 😂 your so intellectual and deep!

[@bood22ataol]

@@fitzfitzchivalry4538 You're*

[@bryanleigh6497]

Rubbish Lydon is his usual interview self, trying to disguise his lack of any substantial knowledge about politics, and Toynbee is her usual preachy self, condescending to Lydon as he detests UKIP because that's what she wants from him. Lydon is great as a musician and character. But his political views are superficial and naïve.

[@Metolius9]

Bryan Leigh I’d have to agree. His heart is in the right place but he is a victim of his sensitivity and lacks a broad perspective that would allow him to escape the familiar comfort he finds in self inflicted misery. Growing up on council estates in the 60’s, 70’s and early 80’s, I considered myself a punk, was a huge fan of the Pistols, the Clash and the Jam. I railed against ‘the system’ believing in the vague sinister existential threat that was the conventional wisdom of the ‘woe is me’ British working class, then I left school and home and was presented with the fact I had to get on with it. I emigrated to the US in 1986 and have had a modicum of success in the software industry. I’m retired at 56, financially secure to a large extent and have enjoyed the success that comes with hard work and personal responsibility . I often wonder how my life would have turned out if I’d stayed on the estates. After seeing a couple of interviews with the older John Lydon, I think I have my answer.

[@bryanleigh6497]

@@Metolius9 Except he didn't stay on the estates and probably has more money than you! But I get your point.👍

[@petelabeat]

"I used to think voting might change something. I learned it don't." Guess who said that? If you guessed John Lydon, you're right.

[@roytetwart]

I'm really impressed! I've never heard Lyndon speak before this video. I like the man and I like the way he speaks.

[@peterburry2014]

This is 6 years old and sadly he's not the same man now at all since he moved to California and became a U.S. citizen.

[@dman030]

So many musicians from my youth, 70's through the 90's just sit there silent while the world burns, only worried about their house payments and getting themselves and their friends stoned (looking at you David Crosby). No wonder the younger generations have a warped view of the older generations, all the important ones sit silent. Johnny is the only one telling it like it is and like it was. That why this man gets my full respect. Thanks John!!

[@GiveBlood555]

he could be wrong , he could be right

[@gazzalenbrick6381]

Lol

[@spodergibbs5088]

Punk is dead. And this guy will be soon too.

[@krisjonesjones9514]

He could be black,He could be white.

[@phil2003ashleigh]

Give Gore but we don’t care

[@patrickrobinson317]

Facts are NOT subjective.

[@LoboLocoX]

Russel Brand is the equivalent of a "Philosophies For Dummies" book.

[@chrisparker728]

+Mr. Clean sign me up to his dummy party.

[@throneofcrap]

+Mr. Clean Real fucking dummies, and it should be presumed they're reading it upside down because that would probably be suggested on the jacket.

[@MrUndersolo]

One caveat: "Philosophies for Dummies" would actually make sense after you took your time with it.

[@manygate10]

+Isureamned Have you said anything better in your response?

[@Landrew0]

"What you get eventually is a lifestyle of cardboard boxes down by the river."

[@peterc1232]

People died for the right to vote , spot on John

[@4june9140]

John Lydon comes over as a very intelligent man.

[@clark5401]

Russell Brand uses his wide vocabulary to talk s#!t. And that is all Russell talks

[@paulgilraine3127]

I'm beginning to think that fact is true

[@davemiddleditch9741]

"Mostly Older, working class men?" 🤣🤣🤣 You're out of touch woman!

[@theeouroborobelisk5477]

Shhh... They're trying to put forth a narrative here Lovey...

[@sunsaengnim6880]

He is a lovely honest geezer a lot more intelligent than the media have ever portrayed him to be.

[@ilovedogs2642]

Did he seriously say Margaret Thatcher didn't break down the union's... And you have the nerve to insult brands intelligence/integrity

[@TheKnobdayShow]

UKIP aren't anti-immigration. They agree that immigration is a good thing but it should be limited, like it is in Australia. Anti-immigration is a BNP policy, a party of ill-educated racists, not a UKIP policy, a party that wants the 430 million people allowed to come and live in the UK quality controlled. If immigration is controlled and the people that come here contribute to the wellness of our country, it's a great thing. Who wants more criminals and more people on benefits?

[@henjem14]

he would make such a good pirate

[@GeorgeB321]

+Henry Johnson friggin in the riggin lol

[@dystopia47]

henry johnson he's so camp

[@nicholasherlock4865]

henry johnson Russell himself could have played Jack Sparrow really well

[@stigmuri7766]

Now that's an idea for a movie :D

[@ninjaclown2929]

They should make a sequel to Drop Dead Fred staring Johnny. (Never, ever should they attempt to remake the epic first movie)

[@CastleHassall]

4:17 "I never preached anarchy.. It was just a novelty in a song.. I always thought anarchy was a mind game for the middle classes " :)

[@lehmooz7402]

"Anarchists cant get anywhere without motorways" That is a touch of genius!

[@PhilUKNet]

There's a lot in this interview that I didn't agree with, but that was a great quote.

[@tednugent8501]

From a punk who actually performed a song called anarchy in the uk.

[@lehmooz7402]

@@tednugent8501 he loves his motorways

[@Deeznutseighthundredthirty]

I give the wrong time stop a traffic line

[@KebabMusicLtd]

What the hell's he talking about??? The Pilgrimage of Grace managed to get about without motorways back in 1536-37

[@redbandmedia79]

Great interview. He's become a wise man over the years.

[@jaffay131]

Always has been sharp and spoken his mind

[@ssalemi]

When I need informed opinion, I ALWAYS turn first to remaining members of the Sex Pistols!

[@hablerz]

Steven Salemi And when they are not available , i poke a piece of Dog shit with a stick.

[@martinmare3198]

"he's preaching all this from the mansion" Oh dayum

[@merda0000000000]

I respect this man for never biting his tongue a true Legend.

[@mentalmickey1459]

John Lydon said himself that he used to believe in voting but realized it doesn't make a difference and that it all needs to change. no need to bash Russell Brand for having the same view he had himself.

[@AshLilburne]

His line about anarchists still using motorways just proves how brilliant this man really is. Only those who have a full understanding and tolerance of both sides can have a truly informed opinion.. No idea how I stumbled across this video, but its given me the tiniest sliver of hope for the future.. Thank you!

[@StannisHarlock]

Lydon's gotten down right charming over the years.

[@madhatyr]

I wish john had a podcast I'd listen to him talk all day

[@Dogboy73]

He's absolutely spot on. We need more John Lydons.

[@romulusremus7537]

What I love about him is he doesn't just automatically go with the herd. Whether I agree with him or not I like that he makes up his own mind.

[@fredfanto2243]

Brand means nothing in the world simple he is a legend in his own lunchbox

[@italianstallion9170]

'I take drugs and tell not funny jokes.' Now i know he is talking about Russell Brand.

[@uk1988tb303]

A national treasure, I'm not religious but God bless Jonny R, guy is a fucking legend.

[@fitzerelli1]

If voting meant anything they wouldnt allow the likes of us to do it..Mark Twain.

[@rickarnold6704]

Mr Lydon is on point as usual regarding RB. Long may he live!

[@blt4life112]

I like artists who can make the difference between being on stage and being in a conversation indoors, all while keeping their integrity. He's a rare one.

[@The_Butler_Did_It]

I never thought that I'd look on Johnny Rotten as the voice of reason but Brand and his predominantly left wing followers electing not to vote and then wondering why the Tories keep getting in is plain potty.

[@tekamin]

The Butler Did It Russel brands whole point is voting makes no difference. The WHOLE system needs changed especially politics. Whats the point in trying to vote in the lesser of the evils when we should just sack the lot and start again, after all they are just public servants.

[@The_Butler_Did_It]

John Gray It is unrealistic to say "sack the lot and start again" and then not vote. The only way to start again is to vote for people who are not currently M.P.s. If there are no suitable candidates then start your own party, if it has enough popular appeal you will win, if it doesn't then it means you are wrong and the other parties are right or at least have more persuasive arguments. By all means stay home if you want, but don't fool yourself that you're not voting. In reality, there is no such thing as not voting: you either vote by voting, or you vote by staying home and, by doing so double the value of the vote cast by someone who could actually be bothered to turn up.”

[@tekamin]

The Butler Did It It's also unrealistic to vote a nicer MP into a rotten system, when its the system that's rotten not the MP's. And don't you fool yourself into thinking if i play along with this system then at least i can sit back and none of these world problems are mine, because i voted. Voting and not really caring about the system is worse than non voting. Change will only come from the people, the bottom up. Definitely not from the top down.

[@The_Butler_Did_It]

John GrayGray And how do you think "the people" are going to change the system? They certainly aren't going to change it by sitting at home and kidding themselves that by opting out that anything is going to change. I understand the sentiment and feelings that lead people to not bothering to vote but how does anyone expect to make a difference if they disengage from the system? The message this sends to the party in power, whichever it might be (or indeed all parties), is that you just don't care and that they have your tacit agreement to do anything they like: Destroy the NHS; we don't care. Drive people into poverty; we don't care. Make the already wealthy even more wealthy at the expense of the less well off; we don't care. Avoid paying your taxes; we don't care. Exploit your workforce to increase your profits; we don't care. Destroy the education system; we don't care. Make university unattainable unless you're rich; we don't care. Essentially, keep the population in its place, deny them any opportunity they can't afford, make sure the 99.9% don't get any ideas above their station! We don't care! It took very many years to win the right to vote, don't let all those campaigners who fought long and hard on our behalf down. Use your vote. Challenge your MP. Take an interest in your own future. Or let the NHS disappear, let your pension age get later and later. Let the family silver be sold off to the multinational corporations. If you really can't bring yourself to vote for any of the candidates, put "None of the above". Spoiled papers get counted and you are at least sending a message. For those who choose not to vote at all, the only message they send is "Do what you like, I don't care".

[@tekamin]

The Butler Did It all that you're saying is true. All our assets are being sold off, the people are being exploited. There is 80,000 homeless people and 800,000 empty homes. They do put fluoride and other stuff in our water to lower our IQ's and make us more 'manageable' . How will signing my name on a bit of paper stop a few rich families controlling the world? and even more, voting with 'none of the above', it makes no difference. We need direct change, real irreversible change. A revolution. No people wont make change sitting around not voting, or voting. the general population are soooooooooo ignorant and are too busy full of fear and hate for muslims, terrorists, ebola. Not to mention people are working so hard these day's they dont have time to properly educate them selves, and the shit food and water gives them short attention spans to learning is difficult. The odds are massively stacked against us, mainly because of the ignorance of the people and their fear of losing everything they have worked so hard for, stuff. Future generations are going to be born into debt they have nothing to do with and very little personal freedoms (scrapping human right act, new terror acts) Were totally fucked make, we have forgotten what it is to be a species, mainstream media is slowly dehumanizing people so murder is fine as long as they aren't white. White people who want a better life are called expats, and don't get shot at. White is right is full of shite. So you tell me mate, how will voting get fluoride out of my water? considering people are protesting for it now and trying to take people to court for it. All we can do is try to wake people up so when enough people are aware of the bigger picture, we can go down to parliament house and arrest all these criminals.

[@pault8470]

Who was it who said "If voting made any difference,they wouldn't let us do it " Think about it

[@jarrodlee1506]

John?

[@jawz2005]

what a wonderful quote

[@timlumley8828]

Mao Zedong

[@soulos7081]

Russell brand was probably preparing for next level consciousness, where the trappings of the past are irrelevant.

[@madoxblack4574]

He speaks so much sense if he was a politician he’d be great

[@williamsteven429]

aah...there's the rub! Tell the truth..and broadcast it....then the "forces within" will bring your downfall.

[@sasca854]

I hate Russell Brand. His ideas are completely asinine.

[@sasca854]

alterdestiny Hate.

[@TimeSquareTitts]

+vash1053 Thutz Wot Jonny Sedd Ludd !!

[@421idk]

+vash1053 you're an idiot

[@sasca854]

421idk Fuck off.

[@lewars1912]

+vash1053 Asinine? Sophomoric is another good word. (ಠ⌣ಠ)

[@JeromekJerome1972]

Nice to see John Lydon be real and not retreat ino caricature. He is so razor sharp and spot on. Love him

[@secondchance6603]

"He's preaching all this from a mansion." Says it all really.

[@secondchance6603]

@Wayne Grey Right, you keep telling yourself that kiddo.

[@ameiliareynolds529]

@@secondchance6603 what does it matter he’s a celebrity he’s gonna get money for it

[@secondchance6603]

@@ameiliareynolds529 You're missing the point. He describes himself as a socialist and says how wonderful socialism is but he doesn't live like one.

[@ChuckNorris-qg2et]

You could also look at voter turn out rate as and indication of confidence in the system. Maybe these people realize we live in a oligarchy and choice is just an illusion.

[@juliantheapostate8295]

To be honest, the Swiss are the closest to having a democracy. It's not that practical with 100m or so electors

[@strelok5661]

YES, i always thought about this... russel brand is a tool

[@dondealga]

John called out Saville years b4 Saville was exposed, & he had measure of BS merchant Brand too

[@Graham.moore.1]

He outed him in 1978, then performed with him on top of the tops in 1979, 💰

[@propercomics5994]

9 years later and he's still spot on about Russel Brand

[@anjalidevi7168]

John Lydon's bs detector is always on point.

[@briancohenthepfjmassive.4769]

You Trump supporter.

[@TheLisaGate]

@@briancohenthepfjmassive.4769do you live in the US? I do. Biden has wrecked our economy.

[@crissybrown705]

this guy is a fool, he is not touch with modern day living, i imagine he is still living off of his royalties, doesnt have a clue about how WE the REAL people of the uk have to live, we cant save a penny of our money, we are working to live, house prices are sky rocketing all over the uk while there are thousands of houses that lay empty! rediculous, national treasure? if hes that much of a treasure someone should put him in an attic where his narrow minded opinion cant be heard!

[@david8157]

obviously you either didnt listen to what he actually said; or you could not hear it on account of whatever ideology is in your head. He speaks very clearly on behalf of working people who are being screwed by the UK ruling class and their political puppets.

[@JoelWende]

And how is Russell Brand any different? Brand has more money than Lydon ever had. He probably earns more in bank interest that Lydon earns in royalties these days. Brand's "Revolution" will do nothing but widen the wealth gap. You think he is going to give up his personal bank account and swish apartment in Shoreditch? You're dreaming. There needs to be change, yes, but you won't get it from Brand, and you certainly won't get it by not voting. All not voting does is ensure that right wingers get power, because they are the ones that do vote. Want change? Form a political party, and vote for it.

[@ReaTank]

Joel Wende He actually is different. He isn't against voting or democracy, he agrees with it if we're actually given a choice, which we are not. Voting doesn't make one shit of a difference, the status quo works for the guys in parliament they aren't going to change any time soon. They're only keen on protecting their own interests. We know that only the big dogs ever have a chance of winning the way the system is set up, why bother to vote if you're choosing between a shit and a turd? he constantly states that yes he has chased fame and got rich but it isn't what he wants anymore. He's incredibly charitable, and isn't even taking ANY profits from his new book. An extract from a recent interview: He received a six-figure advance for Revolution, but insists he won’t be keeping it. “I’m going to get a property in east London and set up a coffee and juice bar to be run by people in recovery from addiction.” So he’s going to give away his money? “No. I’m no longer interested in making money. And the money I get, I’m going to use for good. We need systemic change, not charity. I won’t be in charge. They’ll vote for how they want to run it.”

[@slantyrock]

Johnny makes money from music he had a part in creating, Russel brand is a tosser who goes out with Jemima Khan/Goldsmith, heiress to a billionaire banker.

[@ibuprofen303]

crissy brown - Define what you mean by 'we the real people of the UK'. Lydon looks quite real to me. Brand is real. Cameron is real. The tramp living down by the river is real. They are all living and breathing, made out of carbon atoms and members of the UK, therefore they are 'real people of the UK'. 'We the real people of the UK' - what a meaningless statement.

[@heiltd1286]

John Lydon is a very clever and articulate man.

[@briancohenthepfjmassive.4769]

He's also a Trump supporter.

[@theautodidact7545]

He was once a teenage idol of mine. Now he is an adult idol of mine.

[@TexanWineAunt]

See how reasonable he is when the interviewer is smart and friendly?

[@pedropolanco9042]

Me: ...in order to appreciate it, learn n' get aware even better...!

[@thisnameiseitherrestricted6270]

"Anarchists can't get anywhere without motorways" I love this man.

[@VolkXue]

thats not an anarchist though.. There has been a short lived anarchist state in history. Had their own newspapers and system. This was around the Ukraine in maybe the white revolution. I cant remember for sure now.

[@thelefthandedshooter5760]

Hmmmm….this hasn’t aged well as Brand becomes a powerful voice on KZbin pointing out the corruption of both sides of all issues.

[@diarmuidphelan9664]

An ace of spades is an ace of spades. Love John Lyden. Great interview.

[@heathsavage4852]

Always liked Johnny. Abrasive, but honest. I disagree with most of what he stands for and says, but I respect him.

[@theeouroborobelisk5477]

Same!

[@howardsend6589]

Vote for the lesser of two evils still means you get evil.

[@adriankuba1]

And even if you dont vote you still get one or the other, your point is?

[@makalesoederhuysen6810]

Smells like it’s time for a revolution!! *trumpets sound*, *leaders get visions of the French Revolution*, *common folk get visions of the French Revolution*..... *heads everywhere*

[@DeltaEchoGolf]

But if you don't vote, your saying any evil will do. Which is the worst evil of all.

[@wir154]

This is an unlikely scenario right enough, but is Brand saying that if there was a huge upsurge in support for both the B.N.P. and Green Party and they were neck and neck in his constituency, he wouldn't vote and would be telling all his fellow constituents not to vote?

[@michaelodowd4807]

@@adriankuba1 Point is it's just an illusion of choice, a farce, going through the motions, nothing changes with either of the two main parties in power.

[@ravenhill_firelord_1968]

johnny the legend, always liked him, loved the pistols too, have all their albums.

[@towel2473]

"lovely innit" - underrated closing words .

[@richardruston1088]

03:14 "Get smart. Read as much as you can, and find out who's using you." The best advice I've heard recently.

[@iconicon7354]

He's not self-educated and he hasn't read any classic literature because he's suffering from brain atrophy, gradually deteriorating. This video interview irrefutably proves that there is a brain cell deficit.

[@workwithnature]

I recall he mentions spoiling his vote not not voting. John Lydon - you are given lousy options yes, better that then nothing at all. Wow did it ever occur to him that those options are the only ones on the menu by design and that after the day is all said and done in the house of commons, they all are best of buddies. If you keep blindly following the pretense of having a democracy then change will never happen. Luckily most young people have a brain between their eyes, which can not be said about those two.

[@cordeliafitzgerald8714]

"Preaching from his mansion' 2023 and Johnny was spot on.❤

[@Graham.moore.1]

Johnny lives in a mansion in malibu

[@bobblehat6603]

"If you've got a pile of money in the bank...and if you're like the rest of us..." says the millionaire. LOL

[@66Pipes66]

Bobble Hat I doubt he’s got loads of dosh in the bank. He might own his home and have a pension.

[@lazyafrandomnumbers]

A couple of years ago he was worth 1 mil, I gotta say thats not a lot for someone singing since the 70s

[@mysteryegg340]

@@lazyafrandomnumbers 1 million is bugger all these days. He's probably comfortable at best.

[@Muirton66]

By saying the rest of us he is meaning the working class which is where his roots are.

[@sugarsean5866]

He never respected money. He actually said that before, but he's getting on a bit so I'd say might be comfortable. He's working since he's 19 or 20 after all

[@OthelloNGa]

"he's preaching all this from a mansion" Great stuff!