People said we couldn't play
They called us foul-mothed yobs
But the only notes that really count
Are the ones that come in wads

They all drowned when the air turned blue
'cause we didn't give a toss
Filthy lucre, ain't nothing new
But we all get cash from the chaos

The time is right to do it now
The greatest rock'n'roll swindle
The time is right to do it now

E.M.I. said you're out of hand
And they gave us the boot
But they couldn't sack us, just like that
Without giving us the loot

Thank you kindly A & M
They said we were out of bounds
But that ain't bad for two weeks work
And 75,000 pounds

The time is right to do it now
The greatest rock'n'roll swindle
The time is right to do it now

The time is right to do it now
The greatest rock'n'roll swindle
The time is right to do it now

I just want to play with my hand
Are you good enough for me
Hiya boys I'm the chosen one
Can't you fucking see

I'm a jealous god and I want everything
And I love you with a knife
I'll take you, if you're ready for me
And I'll give you my life

The time is right to do it now
The greatest rock'n'roll swindle
The time is right to do it now

The time is right for Nickey's Special
The greatest rock'n'roll star
The time is right for me, now!


Lyrics submitted by spunkykitten

Great Rock 'n' Roll Swindle Lyrics as written by Steve (gb 1) Jones Julian Temple

Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.

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Great Rock 'n' Roll Swindle song meanings
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    General Comment

    Tudor Pole also says "Bob Dylan's got a parking ticket stuck to his arsehole" and calles Sid Vicious a "rock and roll cliche".

    According to Lydon's book they had these auditions near Finsbury Park, pretty much right down the road from where his parents lived, and that even his brothers went and auditioned. It pleased dear Johnny none.

    Balleron August 24, 2005   Link

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