8 1960s Rock Songs That Became Taboo Today

During the 1960s, rock music pushed social boundaries with bold lyrics and rebellious themes. Some songs that were once popular are now seen as offensive because their words or ideas are considered sexist, degrading, or inappropriate by today’s standards. The following songs have a controversial reputation in modern discussions.

1. “Under My Thumb” by The Rolling Stones (1966)

Released in 1966 by The Rolling Stones, “Under My Thumb” is known for lyrics that many now view as demeaning toward women. The song describes a woman who is controlled and submissive, which modern listeners find offensive. Its words reflect attitudes that were once common but are now challenged.

The track’s language and tone have sparked debate over gender roles. Many argue that its portrayal of a dominant man and a submissive partner reinforces outdated views. The song remains a reminder of how cultural values have changed over time.

2. “Stray Cat Blues” by The Rolling Stones (1968)

“Stray Cat Blues,” recorded in 1968, features raw language and sexual imagery that are seen as objectifying women. The lyrics present a rough and aggressive view of romance that many today find unacceptable. The song’s explicit content has led to calls for its removal from family-friendly lists.

Listeners now criticize its crude portrayal of relationships. The song’s explicit nature and objectification have made it a source of controversy in discussions about respect and equality in music.

3. “Let’s Spend the Night Together” by The Rolling Stones (1967)

This 1967 release by The Rolling Stones offered a bold invitation for intimacy that raised eyebrows. Critics viewed the song as too forward, and many found its sexual suggestion offensive by modern standards. The lyrics left little to the imagination regarding adult relationships.

The song challenged the social norms of its time but now attracts criticism for its explicit nature. Its straightforward approach to sexual invitation has made it a subject of debate among those who favor more respectful language.

4. “I Wanna Be Your Dog” by The Stooges (1969)

Released in 1969, “I Wanna Be Your Dog” by The Stooges presents an animalistic and raw view of desire. Its lyrics use crude language to express a strong, physical attraction that many see as degrading. The song’s blunt expression of sexuality is now considered offensive by some listeners.

Its explicit tone and dehumanizing imagery have drawn modern ire. The song remains a notable example of early rock that pushed limits, even though its content does not meet today’s standards for respectful portrayal of relationships.

5. “Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin (1969)

“Whole Lotta Love” came out in 1969 and is known for its sexual lyrics that many now view as objectifying. The song’s words express intense physical desire in ways that modern audiences sometimes find too explicit and degrading. It pushed sexual boundaries in its time.

The lyrics focus on lust and physical pleasure without much subtlety. Critics point to the song as an example of how expressions of desire can cross the line into objectification, making it a controversial piece in today’s music discussions.

6. “Foxy Lady” by Jimi Hendrix (1967)

“Foxy Lady” by Jimi Hendrix, released in 1967, is noted for its direct and explicit sexual references. The song uses language that many see as reducing a woman to an object of desire. Its bold expression of attraction has raised concerns among modern listeners who expect more respectful portrayals.

The track’s straightforward approach to sexuality can be seen as offensive today. Critics argue that its language and imagery contribute to a view that objectifies women, reflecting attitudes that have since been widely challenged.

7. “Summertime Blues” by The Who (1967)

Recorded in 1967, “Summertime Blues” by The Who touches on youthful rebellion with a tone that some interpret as trivializing serious issues. The lyrics include casual references that may come off as dismissive of social responsibilities and respectful behavior.

Modern audiences sometimes find the song’s language insensitive. Its carefree attitude toward important social concerns makes it a subject of criticism in today’s cultural discussions.

8. “Gloria” by Them (1964)

“Gloria” by Them, released in 1964, features repetitive lyrics and explicit sexual references. The song’s portrayal of desire and relationships is seen by many as crude and objectifying. Its blunt language about love and lust has led to controversy among listeners.

The song has been criticized for its lack of respect in describing intimate relations. Its straightforward depiction of sexual desire is one reason why modern audiences view it as a taboo piece of rock history.