BBC Banned Music Top Singles Banned By the BBC
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BBC Banned Music: Top Singles Banned by the BBC
Overview
Discover some of the most notable singles banned by the BBC over the years. These tracks, deemed too controversial or explicit, didn’t fit the broadcaster's standards, yet many still soared in popularity.
Noteworthy Banned Singles
Sex Pistols: "God Save the Queen" (1977)
During the Queen's Jubilee in 1977, the Sex Pistols released "God Save the Queen," brimming with provocative lyrics and artwork. The BBC deemed it too controversial for airplay, yet it still reached number two on the official singles chart. Legend has it, the song was the top seller, potentially held back from the number one spot to avoid outrage.
Serge Gainsbourg & Jane Birkin: "Je T’Aime... Moi Non Plus" (1969)
Despite the era’s sexual revolution, the BBC banned this racy duet due to its explicit lyrics and Birkin's evocative vocals. The ban, along with criticism from The Vatican, only fueled its success, making it the first banned number one on the BBC charts.
Donna Summer: "Love to Love You Baby" (1976)
Influenced by Gainsbourg's duet, Donna Summer's "Love to Love You Baby" faced a BBC ban for its explicit content, including 23 simulated orgasms. Despite this, it became a major hit, reaching number four in the UK and number two on the US Billboard chart.
Frankie Goes to Hollywood: "Relax" (1984)
"Relax" was both controversial and wildly successful. Banned by the BBC, and publicly criticized by DJ Mike Read, it dominated the UK charts for 42 weeks, including five weeks at number one. Its triumph is often debated as either a result of, or in spite of, the ban.
Paul McCartney & Wings: "Give Ireland Back to the Irish" (1972)
Responding to the Bloody Sunday events, this song faced bans across UK media, including the BBC. The song title wasn’t even allowed to air and was instead referred to vaguely. Nonetheless, it topped the Irish singles chart, proving its impact.
These banned singles illustrate the tension between artistic expression and broadcasting standards, often resulting in even greater success and cultural impact.
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