BBC Banned Music Top Singles Banned By the BBC
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BBC Banned Music: Top Singles Blocked by the BBC
Overview
Explore some of the most notable singles that were banned by the BBC, affectionately known as Auntie Beeb.
Introduction
The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), as a public broadcaster, has occasionally banned songs that it deemed too explicit or potentially offensive. Here are some memorable instances.
Controversial Singles
"God Save the Queen" - Sex Pistols (1977)
In 1977, amidst celebrations for the Queen’s Jubilee, the Sex Pistols released "God Save the Queen." Its provocative lyrics and cover art featuring the Queen with a safety pin in her nose led to a BBC ban. Despite this, it soared to number two on the BBC Official Singles Chart. Rumor has it that it was the highest-selling single in the UK but was kept from the top spot to avoid controversy.
"Je T'Aime ... Moi Non Plus" - Serge Gainsbourg and Jane Birkin (1969)
This duet was the first number one hit to be banned by the BBC. Despite the sexual revolution of the time, the song's explicit lyrics and moans proved too much for British radio. The ban, along with disapproval from the Vatican, did not prevent its success, reaching number one on the BBC Official Singles Chart and number 69 on the US charts.
"Love to Love You Baby" - Donna Summer (1976)
Inspired by "Je T'Aime ... Moi Non Plus," Donna Summer’s "Love to Love You Baby" was banned after the BBC counted 23 simulated orgasms. Nonetheless, the disco hit climbed to number four on the UK charts and number two on the Billboard chart in the US.
"Relax" - Frankie Goes to Hollywood (1984)
Infamous for its explicit lyrics, "Relax" not only faced a BBC ban but also public criticism from BBC Radio 1 DJ Mike Read. It remained on the UK charts for 42 weeks, spending five weeks at number one. By the end of 1984, the BBC lifted the ban, though debates continue over whether the ban hindered or helped its success.
"Give Ireland Back to the Irish" - Paul McCartney & Wings (1972)
In response to Bloody Sunday, this politically charged song was banned by the BBC, Radio Luxembourg, and the Independent Television Authority. Even the title was censored on air, yet it still topped the Irish Singles Chart.
Conclusion
While these bans were intended to maintain standards, they often fueled the songs' popularity instead. Whether these tracks succeeded despite or because of the bans is still a topic of debate.
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