7 popular old songs that were censored
Sometimes, political correctness can go a little too far. Just take a look at these seven iconic songs that were banned from the airwaves over reasons that certainly wouldn’t apply today.
1. “Splish Splash” by Bobby Darin
Released in 1958, this song was banned by some radio stations for the silliest reason ever – it depicts the singer taking a bath, which is usually done in the nude. Apparently that’s too suggestive.
2. “Brown Eyed Girl” by Van Morrison
One of the most iconic songs of the ‘60s, Van Morrison’s hit was banned from some stations thanks to one line about “making love in the green grass”. Imagine how they’d react to some of today’s songs!
3. “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow” by The Shirelles
This Carole King-penned song is actually about a young girl considering losing her virginity, and the line, “So tell me now, and I won't ask again, will you still love me tomorrow?” was deemed too much for stations in the US.
4. “My Generation” by The Who
It’s been the anthem for angsty teens all over the world for years, but The Who’s hit was banned by the BBC for fear it would offend stutterers (particularly the line, “Why don't you all f-f-f-fade away”).
5. “God Only Knows” by The Beach Boys
Who knew this tune was anything other than a sweet love song? Several radio stations banned the iconic Beach Boys song for being “blasphemous”.
6. “Louie Louie” by The Kingsmen
This song was so controversial, the FBI got involved. You see, its indecipherable lyrics led many to think it was hiding vulgar words or an inappropriate meaning. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t.
7. “Great Balls of Fire” by Jerry Lee Lewis
Several radio stations in the US’ conservative southern states, where “great balls of fire” was considered a blasphemous phrase, banned Jerry Lee Lewis’ biggest hit.