Sex Pistols were, despite their short existence, one of the most influential English punk bands. While of the original set of UK punks The Clash were perhaps more articulate and politically motivated, The Damned more versatile, and Buzzcocks had more astute pop sensibilities, the Pistols achieved more recognition through their iconic punk rock passion and flamboyancy, and no other band of the era made such a lasting impression on British popular culture.

In November 2005, it was announced that they would be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. An honor the band rejected.