The 1970s, an era of groovy tunes and disco fever, was not without its share of controversy. What was deemed catchy and funny may not cut it these days. Let’s revisit 17 songs that would be out of line today.
“Baby It’s Cold Outside” – Dean Martin (1972)
Dean Martin’s “Baby It’s Cold Outside” remains a holiday classic, however, its playful back-and-forth between a man and a woman has faced criticism for skirting consent. In an age of heightened awareness, the song’s lyrics raise questions.
“Sweet Home Alabama” – Lynyrd Skynyrd (1974)
Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Sweet Home Alabama” makes people edgy with its references to identity in the South and its response to Neil Young’s “Southern Man,” sparking debates about racial and regional sensitivities.
“Kung Fu Fighting” – Carl Douglas (1974)
“Kung Fu Fighting” by Carl Douglas is a foot-tapper, though that hasn’t stopped it from being slammed for its stereotypical portrayal of martial arts and Asian culture, sparking discussions about cultural sensitivity. Not everyone enjoys what this song reflects about our old ideas.
“Brown Sugar” – The Rolling Stones (1971)
The Rolling Stones’ “Brown Sugar” is a rock classic with a catchy tune, despite that its lyrics have been noted for their controversial content. The song includes references to slavery and racial objectification, which is not comfortable territory for all.
“Short People” – Randy Newman (1977)
Randy Newman’s “Short People” is a quirky and satirical song, but its lyrics can be divisive due to their mocking portrayal of shorter people. Some listeners interpret the song as offensive and hurtful, prompting discussions about the line for satire.
“Run for Your Life” – The Beatles (1965)
While The Beatles’ “Run for Your Life” had a catchy beat, its possessive and threatening lyrics would raise concerns today about its portrayal of relationships. The song illustrates the changing standards of what’s acceptable in songwriting.
“Hot Child in the City” – Nick Gilder (1978)
Nick Gilder’s “Hot Child in the City” was a chart-topper, but, we know now, its lyrics about an underage girl navigating the city aren’t popular with everyone. Some think they even suggest exploitative relationships.
“Lola” – The Kinks (1970)
The Kinks’ “Lola” raised eyebrows with its lyrics about a transgender character, sparking debates about representation and sensitivity. The discomfort around this classic reminds us of the evolving conversations around gender and identity.
“Walk on the Wild Side” – Lou Reed (1972)
Lou Reed’s “Walk on the Wild Side” was a rock classic, however, there is no denying that its references to taboo topics, including transgender issues and drug use, would be met with controversy today. The song’s boldness reflects a different era.
“Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” – Looking Glass (1972)
“Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” by Looking Glass has been criticized for its lyrics, which some interpret as promoting the objectification of women. The new reaction highlights the ongoing dialogue about gender roles in music.
“Money, Money, Money” – ABBA (1976)
One of ABBA’s iconic hits, “Money, Money, Money,” is an infectious tune that delves into the desire for wealth and a luxurious life. In an era more conscious of mental health and the pitfalls of materialism, the song reinforces ideals that young people don’t appreciate.
“Big Bad Leroy Brown” – Jim Croce (1973)
“Big Bad Leroy Brown” by Jim Croce is a fun song, on the other hand, its portrayal of the character Leroy Brown could be criticized for perpetuating stereotypes. It reminds us of the importance of diverse and respectful storytelling.
“My Ding-A-Ling” – Chuck Berry (1972)
Chuck Berry’s “My Ding-A-Ling” is a playful song, although its suggestive lyrics have been questioned for their appropriateness, particularly in the context of today’s standards. It underscores the changing boundaries of what’s deemed acceptable in music.
“Cat’s in the Cradle” – Harry Chapin (1974)
“Cat’s in the Cradle” by Harry Chapin is a poignant song, but its themes of absent parenting would probably prompt discussions about family dynamics and priorities now. Treating absentee fathers as normal doesn’t fly with people who want to see equal parenting.
“The Night Chicago Died” – Paper Lace (1974)
“The Night Chicago Died” by Paper Lace has come up against backlash for its simplistic and historically inaccurate portrayal of a violent event, prompting discussions about responsible storytelling. Modern eyes highlight the responsibility of artists to portray history accurately.
“The Ballroom Blitz” – The Sweet (1973)
“The Ballroom Blitz” by The Sweet has been criticized for its chaotic and potentially violent imagery, raising concerns about the impact of such themes in music. The song reflects the era’s fascination with the wild and rebellious but, of course, that was then.
“One Bad Apple” – The Osmonds (1970)
“One Bad Apple” by The Osmonds has been viewed as promoting stereotypes and unrealistic relationship expectations, prompting discussions about healthy dating dynamics. Millennials and Gen Z are over the idea of people being ‘bad apples’, they think more about people as a work in progress.
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