In 1983, a controversial track by British group Frankie Goes to Hollywood made waves among young listeners for its catchy beat and edgy lyrics. The track, titled “Relax,” faced scrutiny due to its sexually driven themes, resulting in it being banned by radio stations.
“Relax” was the debut single for Frankie Goes to Hollywood, featuring provocative lyrics that caught immediate attention. Singer Holly Johnson developed the track while walking in Liverpool, with the band later performing an early version on Channel 4’s The Tube. Producer Trevor Horn of ZTT Records saw the potential in the track after hearing it on BBC Radio 1, leading to multiple versions before the final release in October 1983.
Despite facing radio bans, “Relax” soared on the UK charts, thanks to a marketing campaign by ZTT co-founder Paul Morley. The track’s themes of sex, war, religion, and LGBTQ visibility were highlighted in ads featuring band members Holly Johnson and Paul Rutherford in bold outfits. The slow climb to success was fueled by a performance on BBC’s Top of the Pops.
The controversy surrounding “Relax” reached a peak when BBC Radio 1 DJ Mike Read voiced his disapproval of the track’s suggestive lyrics. The ban only fueled its popularity, landing it at No. 2 on the UK charts and eventually reaching No. 1. The track’s success continued with the release of “Two Tribes,” solidifying Frankie Goes to Hollywood’s place in the music scene.
Not only was “Relax” banned by BBC Radio, but its music video faced the same fate due to its S&M theme. Despite the setbacks, the band’s scandalous image and daring music continued to attract audiences, leading to a lift on the ban in 1984.
The story of “Relax” and Frankie Goes to Hollywood serves as a testament to the power of controversy in the music industry. Their unapologetic approach to sexuality and bold visuals pushed boundaries, ultimately solidifying their status as trailblazers in the UK music scene.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.