New music
Nora Forster has died.
The German heiress became entwined in underground music during the mid 60s, supporting the likes of Jimi Hendrix on a number of West German tours. Drawn to London, she became a full-time promoter, before being drawn to the nascent punk scene.
Her daughter Ari Up became a member of the Slits, while Nora met – and fell in love with – Sex Pistols frontman John Lydon. The two married, and their partnership became one of music’s most enduring, with Nora becoming the focus of some of John’s most heartfelt songs.
The two latterly lived on the American west coast, and Nora Forster was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2018. John Lydon became her carer, and spoke movingly on a number of occasions about how these experiences have changed his life.
Speaking to The Sunday Times, John Lydon has frankly discussed his life as a carer, saying it can get “overwhelmingly sad”.
“Alzheimer’s is a wicked, debilitating, slow, deliberate process, but we’re going through that together. She doesn’t forget me. She forgets everything else but not me.”
The Sex Pistols frontman added: “I know it’s going to deteriorate into something really, really terrible, but we’re facing it with a sense of dignity… When I make a commitment it’s for ever and I stand by that and I’m very proud to do the best I can for her. We’ve been together now 45 years; we’re not going to change anything.”
John Lydon’s group PiL applied to enter Eurovision earlier this year, intent on representing Ireland. The song the band chose was ‘Hawaii’, itself a tender love song for Nora.
—
Sadly, a few moments ago a statement from John Lydon confirmed news of Nora Forster’s death. She was 80 years old.
Rest in Peace Nora Forster.
It is with a heavy heart that we share the sad news that Nora Forster – John Lydon’s wife of nearly 5 decades – has passed away. Nora had been living with Alzheimer’s for several years. In which time John had become her full time carer.
Please respect John’s grief and allow him space.
Rest in Peace Nora. Heart felt condolences to John from Rambo and all at PiL Official.
—
