10 Music Videos Banned By MTV For Crossing The Line
9. Van Halen – “Oh, Pretty Woman”
Van Halen’s video for “Oh, Pretty Woman” didn’t hold back on edgy humor, including scenes with villains, a damsel in distress, and a character in drag. MTV found it all a bit too controversial, especially the playful nods to sensitive stereotypes, and decided to ban it. For Van Halen, it only added to their rebellious image.
8. Motorhead – “Killed By Death”
Motorhead’s “Killed By Death” video embraced a raw rock-and-roll vibe, complete with action-packed violence and gritty themes. Featuring Lemmy in chases and confrontations with the law, the video was a little too much for MTV. Ironically, the ban only boosted Motorhead’s rebellious reputation, turning the video into a fan favorite.
7. Queen – “I Want To Break Free”
Queen’s iconic video featuring the band members in drag stirred up quite a bit of controversy. MTV wasn’t ready to embrace cross-dressing as a form of self-expression in the early ’80s, and they banned the video, reflecting the era’s conservative attitudes. Over time, the video became a beloved classic, celebrating Queen’s flair for challenging norms.
6. Motley Crue – “Girls, Girls, Girls”
Motley Crue’s “Girls, Girls, Girls” was an unapologetic ode to the band’s wild side, with scenes set in strip clubs and featuring provocative dancers. MTV felt the video’s content was simply too much and decided to pull it from their lineup, solidifying the band’s party-hard reputation.
5. Twisted Sister – “Be Chrool To Your Scuel”
Teaming up with Alice Cooper, Twisted Sister took their “Be Chrool To Your Scuel” video to zombie-filled high school halls. With graphic scenes of mayhem, MTV banned it, fearing it could contribute to rock music’s perceived negative impact on youth culture. Still, the video remains a cult classic among fans of horror-themed rock.
4. Neil Young – “This Note’s For You”
In “This Note’s For You,” Neil Young took a bold stand against commercialism by mocking big brands, making MTV uneasy about its advertising partnerships. Concerned it could risk ad revenue, MTV banned it. Ironically, the video later won an award at the VMAs, underscoring the tension between artistic expression and commercial interests.
3. Soundgarden – “Jesus Christ Pose”
Soundgarden’s “Jesus Christ Pose” video leaned into heavy religious imagery, with crucifixion scenes criticizing the misuse of religious symbols. MTV banned it, preferring to steer clear of controversial religious topics. Despite this, the video became an iconic part of Soundgarden’s legacy, speaking to the band’s willingness to address deeper themes.
2. Nine Inch Nails – “Closer”
Known for its provocative lyrics and intense visuals, Nine Inch Nails’ “Closer” featured disturbing themes and imagery. MTV’s ban on the uncut version only heightened interest, driving demand to see the video in its full, uncensored form. This controversy helped cement Nine Inch Nails as boundary-pushers in the music world.
1. Tool – “Prison ___”
Tool’s “Prison ___” (unfortunately, we can’t post the last word here) used surreal stop-motion animation to delve into heavy themes of trauma and abuse, with intense symbolism and unsettling visuals. MTV pulled it from their rotation, finding the content too dark and disturbing for mainstream viewers. Despite the ban, the video stands as a haunting, bold piece in Tool’s catalog, challenging societal taboos.
