10 Songs That Were Banned For Unexpected Reasons

Music has the power to evoke emotions, challenge societal norms, and sometimes, even stir controversy. Throughout history, certain songs have found themselves banned, not necessarily for the reasons you might expect. From political turmoil to unexpected cultural clashes, let’s delve into the intriguing stories behind 10 songs that faced the music of censorship.

1. “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” by The Beatles

Despite The Beatles’ denial that their song was a veiled reference to LSD, the initials of the title sparked suspicions. Many radio stations banned it during the conservative atmosphere of the 1960s.

2. “God Save the Queen” by Sex Pistols

Released during Queen Elizabeth II’s Silver Jubilee, this punk anthem was deemed too anti-establishment and provocative. The BBC refused to play it, and the controversy around the song contributed to the Sex Pistols’ rebellious reputation.

3. “Wake Up Little Susie” by The Everly Brothers

This innocent-sounding tune was banned in Boston in the late 1950s for fear that its lyrics about a couple falling asleep at the movies would encourage immoral behavior among the youth.

4. “I Want to Hold Your Hand” by The Beatles

Believe it or not, this iconic Beatles hit faced censorship in several places due to concerns about its perceived sexual connotations. The innocence of a desire to hold hands was lost on some conservative authorities.

5. “My Generation” by The Who

In the 1960s, this anthem of youthful rebellion was banned by the BBC for fear that its lyrics, especially the line “Hope I die before I get old,” would incite anti-establishment sentiments among the youth.

6. “Relax” by Frankie Goes to Hollywood

This 1980s synth-pop hit faced bans by the BBC and in certain countries due to its explicit lyrics and controversial album cover. Despite the bans, or perhaps because of them, the song became a commercial success.

7. “Ebony and Ivory” by Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder

While it may seem like a harmonious collaboration, this song faced criticism for oversimplifying race relations with its black-and-white metaphor. South Africa banned it during the Apartheid era.

8. “Cop Killer” by Ice-T’s Body Count

Released in 1992, this controversial rap-metal track faced severe backlash for its perceived endorsement of violence against law enforcement. Many retailers refused to sell the album, and some radio stations banned the song.

9. “Killing Me Softly” by The Fugees

Originally written by Roberta Flack, The Fugees’ cover was briefly banned in Malaysia due to its supposedly explicit lyrics. The ban was later lifted when it was revealed that the censors had misinterpreted the words.

10. “Walk Like an Egyptian” by The Bangles

This catchy ’80s hit faced a ban in Egypt for its supposedly offensive portrayal of Egyptian culture. The ban was eventually lifted after it was recognized that the song was meant to be lighthearted and not disrespectful.