9 Controversial 1970s Songs That Would Not Pass In Today’s Standards

The 70s was a time of experimentation and rebellion, and the music reflected that. But, like many things from that era, some of the tunes that once felt liberating now raise questions about race, gender, and power dynamics. The artists of the time were reflecting the attitudes of their generation, but looking back, some of those attitudes don’t hold up well in today’s more socially conscious world. So, while you might still belt out these hits on a nostalgic road trip, it’s worth remembering that some of the tunes that made us groove back then wouldn’t make the charts today.

“Some Girls” by The Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones are known for pushing boundaries, but “Some Girls” took it too far for many listeners. In this song, the band used offensive stereotypes, particularly when it came to women and their ethnic backgrounds. Lines like “Chinese girls are so gentle, they’re really such a tease” don’t just sound outdated today—they come across as downright problematic. The 1976 song may have been edgy back in the day, but in today’s world, it would likely face a lot of criticism for its casual racism and sexism.

“Puff, the Magic Dragon” by Peter, Paul and Mary
This beloved folk song was released in 1963. Though the track had a magical, innocent vibe, it faced backlash for a very different reason. Some listeners believed it was secretly about smoking weed, with the lyrics about Puff and his adventures seeming like a metaphor for drug use. In reality, the song was about the loss of childhood innocence, and its creators always denied any drug-related meaning. Still, the song’s misunderstood message led to bans in some places. If it were released today, it would probably still spark debates, though for very different reasons.

“Run For Your Life” by The Beatles
The Beatles are synonymous with peace and love, but “Run For Your Life” is a darker, more threatening song than you’d expect from the Fab Four. With lines like “I’d rather see you dead little girl than to be with another man,” the song sends a disturbing message about jealousy and control in relationships. Though it was inspired by an Elvis Presley tune, this 1965 track would likely be considered creepy and problematic by today’s standards.

“Island Girl” by Elton John
Elton John’s career has spanned decades and has been marked by incredible success. However, not every song in his catalog has aged well, including this 1975 track. “Island Girl,” with lyrics like “She’s black as coal, but she burn like a fire,” sparked controversy for its racial stereotypes. While the song might have been meant as a catchy pop tune, today it would be criticized for reinforcing problematic views about race.

“Hot Child in the City” by Nick Gilder
“Hot Child in the City” was a big hit in 1978, but its lyrics tell a darker story. The song, which seems to describe a young girl in the city, is widely interpreted as referencing underage prostitution. With lines like “Danger in the shape of something wild, stranger dressed in black, she’s a hungry child,” the song carries an uncomfortable tone that would raise red flags in today’s more socially aware climate.

“You’re Sixteen” by Ringo Starr
Ringo Starr’s catchy tune “You’re Sixteen” was a chart-topper, but when you listen to it today, it’s pretty hard to ignore the creepy implications. The song, about a grown man falling for a 16-year-old girl, would be seen as inappropriate now. With Ringo being 33 years old at the time the song was released in 1973, the lyrics “You’re sixteen, you’re beautiful and you’re mine” would be considered deeply uncomfortable in today’s more sensitive culture.

“Kung Fu Fighting” by Carl Douglas
Although “Kung Fu Fighting” is a fun, upbeat song with a catchy rhythm, its lyrics are problematic by today’s standards. The line “There were funky Chinamen from funky Chinatown” has been called out for cultural appropriation and racism. This 1974 song, which was meant as a tribute to martial arts, instead perpetuated racial stereotypes and has been called offensive by many in the years since.

“God Save The Queen” by Sex Pistols
The Sex Pistols’ 1977 punk anthem “God Save The Queen” was a rebellious middle finger to the establishment, but it also ruffled feathers for its bold criticism of the British monarchy. With lyrics like “God save the Queen, she’s not a human being,” the song caused outrage during Queen Elizabeth’s Silver Jubilee. While it was a hallmark of punk rock’s anti-authority ethos, in today’s world, it would likely spark even more controversy due to its blatant disrespect and anger toward the monarchy.

“Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds” by The Beatles
The Beatles were no strangers to controversy. One of their most talked-about tracks was “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” which was released in 1967. The song’s surreal lyrics, describing a dreamlike world of “tangerine trees and marmalade skies,” led many to assume the title was a coded reference to LSD. Though John Lennon and Paul McCartney denied this, the drug association stuck, and the song became a symbol of the psychedelic era. If it were released today, it might be scrutinized for promoting drug culture, even if that wasn’t the original intent.