Malcolm McLaren, R.I.P.

In his 2008 interview with the Enough Rope program, former Sex Pistols manager, Sex shop co-owner, and counter-cultural icon Malcolm McLaren admitted, "Somehow or other, I remain permanently cool" when asked what he actually does for a living. McLaren died of cancer today at a Swiss hospital at age 64 after living a controversial life that, in the end, confirmed that cool status.

He was, of course, best known as something of a Sevengali for the nascent punk scene, corralling those disobedient juvies the Sex Pistols into something the world not only took notice of, but became inspired by. His role in managing and marketing the group helped spread the seed of the punk sound and aesthetic, influencing an international contingent of kids who'd go on to pick up guitars and sneer back at fans in their honor.

McLaren's own attempts at making music weren't half as successful as the Sex Pistols.

But he nonetheless held on to his cult status--along with his ex lover and partner in punk royalty, Vivienne Westwood--for many decades.

UPDATE: Johnny Rotten just released a statement about McLaren's death: "For me Malc was always entertaining, and I hope you remember that. Above all else he was an entertainer and I will miss him, and so should you."

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