5 Banned Classic Country Songs that Topped Charts

Country music may have a reputation for being upbeat and full of nostalgia, but there are certain songs in the genre that deal with difficult topics. It’s hardly surprising, really, as many musicians utilize their work as a platform for political commentary and dissent. Because of this, listeners often refuse to support certain types of country music or radio stations will not play them; but in spite of the criticism, most of these songs remain quite popular. Presented below are the 5 banned country songs that defy conservatism yet still rose to the top of the music charts. Check it out.

“The Pill” – Loretta Lynn (1975)

This banned country song was said to glorify the usage of birth control pills, which irritated conservative country music listeners. The irony though, was that due to the public’s curiosity about what the song is about, it catapulted to the top 5 in music charts.

“The Thunder Rolls” – Garth Brooks (1991)

Garth Brooks’ “The Thunder Rolls” was banned by radio stations for its explicit music video that showcases domestic violence. However, numerous female rights activists expressed their support for Brooks’ song by signing petitions due to the fact that the video merely tells the truth that women face from abusive men.

“Fancy” – Reba McEntire (1990)

Bobbie Gentry recorded and published the song in 1970, and Reba McEntire resurrected it in 1990, yet it was the latter’s version that the song caught on with several music listeners. In case you haven’t listened yet, the track tells us about a young sex worker exploring the world through her work.

“It Wasn’t God Who Made Honky Tonk Angels” – Kitty Wells (1952)

Because of the predominance of men in society at the time of the song’s debut, NBC radio and the Grand Ole Opry banned the song for being too “provocative.” Wells, however, became the first female country music performer after the song climbed to the top of the charts with this country classic.

“You’ve Never Been This Far Before” – Conway Twitty (1973)

The song was banned for its sexually suggestive lyrics that upset conservatists. Its lyrics “I don’t know what I’m saying / As my trembling fingers touch forbidden places / And as I taste your tender kisses / I can tell you’ve never been this far before” probably gave it away.