Shock and censorship: 10 music videos that scandalized the world

Censored music videos have always aroused curiosity and debate: between provocative scenes, nudity and controversial references, some music videos have marked an era and generated global scandal. From Madonna’s blasphemy to the Prodigy’s explicit violence, below is a list of the most famous scandalous music videos.

Madonna – “Like a Prayer” (1989)

A classic of censored video clips: Madonna’s video sparked controversy for the religious scenes and sacred symbols, with fiery crosses and kisses between Madonna and a black saint. Banned from some American television, it remains one of the most iconic moments in the history of pop culture.

Robbie Williams – “Rock DJ” (2000)
Directed by Vaughan Arnell, it became one of the most scandalous and censored videos in the history of pop music. It starts out like a classic club video, with Robbie dancing and trying to get the attention of some models. But the situation degenerates: to seduce them, Robbie strips completely, then literally starts tearing off his skin.

Prodigy – “Smack My Bitch Up” (1997)

The video, shot in POV (first person), shows excesses of alcohol, drugs and sex. Explicit and provocative, it was censored by MTV and many international broadcasters, but remains a cult for its bold aesthetic and the fast-paced rhythm of the song.

Robin Thicke – “Blurred Lines” (2013)
Between full nudity and sexual references, the video clip was removed from YouTube in some versions and criticized for its ambiguous message on consent. A case that sparked the debate on the limits of artistic freedom in music videos.

Nine Inch Nails – “Closer” (1994)

The video clip contained images of nudity and sadomasochistic references, causing scandal and controversy. Censored by mainstream TV, he contributed to building the provocative image of Trent Reznor and the industrial rock project.

Janet Jackson – “If” (2004)
Between sexual references and bold scenes, Janet Jackson’s video was deemed too explicit for some TV channels. The combination of dance and sensuality made it an emblematic case of contemporary musical censorship.

Marilyn Manson – “Sweet Dreams” (1995)

Contains scenes of extreme sexuality and simulated violence. The video was pulled by many broadcasters for its disturbing nature, cementing Manson’s reputation as rock’s “anti-Christ.”

Madonna – “Justify My Love” (1990)
Banned by MTV for its explicit sex and nudity scenes, the video was later released as a VHS single. A unique case of a music video that was censored but became a cult object among fans.

Sinead O’Connor – “Nothing Compares 2 U” (1990)

Not for nudity or sex, but for the emotional tension and the direct gaze at the camera, some TV channels considered the video too intense and limited its programming, demonstrating that censorship does not only concern explicit provocations.

Lady Gaga – “Alejandro” (2010)
Some television channels censored it for nudity and religious references, sparking debates on the boundary between art and provocation.