The Strokes, 'New York City Cops' (2001). The New Yorkers self-censored the US version of 'Is This It' for fear of offending Americans in wake of 9/11. The lyric "they ain't too smart" in reference to New York police was thought too derogatory considering the tragic event, and the band re-released a "safe" version of the album in early October - minus 'New York City Cops'.
Frankie Goes To Hollywood, 'Relax' (1983). The BBC's most famous - and embarrassing - ban. Radio 1 DJ Mike Read pulled the song off air because of its "disgusting" sexual lyrics. The ban backfired as the song went on to become the seventh biggest selling single of all time. The intention had always been to shock: early adverts for the single featured frontman Holly Johnson wearing rubber gloves alongside the pun: 'All the nice boys love sea men'.