Controversy and Censorship: The Rolling Stones' 'Star Star' Ban by the BBC
On this day in 1973, the BBC banned a song titled “Star Star” from The Rolling Stones’ album Goats Head Soup due to its explicit content. Originally named “Starf**ker,” the song was about groupies and featured a chorus with repeated F-bombs, leading to its ban by the BBC.
Some speculate that Mick Jagger wrote the song about Carly Simon, with whom he had an affair that ended before the song’s release. The lyrics reference Hollywood and a can of tasty foam, possibly alluding to Simon’s move to Los Angeles and her marriage to James Taylor. The song also includes nods to Jagger’s backing vocals on “You’re So Vain.”
Despite being released as a single in December 1973, “Star Star” caused controversy during The Rolling Stones’ European tour in support of Goats Head Soup. The BBC took notice of the song when a snippet was played during a late-night news broadcast, leading to its ban for its perceived misogynistic lyrics.
Jagger addressed criticism of the song during a 1975 tour stop, defending it as a reflection of his personal experiences. He dismissed accusations of misogyny, stating that women on tour should have a purpose other than just being there for sexual reasons. The controversy surrounding “Star Star” highlighted the band’s reputation and the provocative nature of their music.