Andrew McLaren

Malcolm Robert Andrew McLaren (1946–2010) was an English fashion designer, entrepreneur, and music manager who significantly influenced punk rock and new wave music. Raised by his grandmother after his parents' divorce, McLaren attended art colleges in the 1960s, becoming involved in underground art and activism. Alongside Vivienne Westwood, he operated the boutique Sex, a key hub for early punk fashion and subculture. McLaren managed bands including the New York Dolls and the Sex Pistols, employing provocative tactics, such as the controversial "God Save the Queen" single, to generate publicity. His career also encompassed a solo music career in the 1980s, exploring hip hop, world music, funk, disco, and electronic dance music, with his album "Duck Rock" achieving commercial success. He lived in Paris and New York City in his later years.

Born in 1946, Andrew McLaren was raised by his grandmother after his parents separated. His early years were marked by attendance at various British art colleges throughout the 1960s. During this period, he became engaged with the underground art scene and left-wing political activism. This formative experience in art and activism likely shaped his later approach to cultural promotion and management.

McLaren co-owned the Chelsea boutique Sex with Vivienne Westwood from 1974 to 1976. This establishment was instrumental in defining early punk fashion and served as a central meeting point for the burgeoning subculture in London. His management of bands like the New York Dolls and, most notably, the Sex Pistols, was characterized by a deliberate use of shock tactics. A prime example was the release of "God Save the Queen" during the Queen's Jubilee, an act of satire that led to his arrest and significant publicity, highlighting his talent for leveraging controversy.

In the 1980s, McLaren transitioned to managing other music acts and embarked on a solo career. His initial musical explorations focused on hip hop and world music, later expanding into funk, disco, and electronic dance music. His first album, "Duck Rock," achieved commercial success, with singles like "Buffalo Gals" and "Double Dutch" reaching the top ten. McLaren's work often involved merging diverse musical styles and cultural influences, aiming to bring new sounds to a wider audience and demonstrating his entrepreneurial approach to popular culture.

“We've talked to Malcolm's mum. Even she doesn't like him.”