20 Problematic Songs From Past 25 Years
"Bad Guy" by Eminem (2013): Eminem is known for releasing extremely violent, misogynistic, and anti-gay songs for decades. People have argued he's just using his imagination as a songwriter, but in "Bad Guy," he takes it too far and describes in horrific detail how he'd violate someone with a "chloroform rag," among other horrible things.
And "Kim" by Eminem (2000): Again, Eminem has a long history of problematic lyrics about women, including his ex-wife, Kim Scott. In "Kim," he fantasizes about kidnapping, abusing, and murdering her. I don't know how this song ever got okayed in the first place.
"Try That In A Small Town" by Jason Aldean (2023): It's not just the tough-guy lyrics that are problematic — it's how it leans into a kind of small-town pride that feels more like a threat than a celebration. Even worse? The video was filmed at the Maury County Courthouse, the very spot where, in 1927, black teen Henry Choate was accused (without evidence) of assaulting a white girl and lynched and hanged by a white mob.
"Blame It (On the Alcohol)" by Jamie Foxx and T-Pain (2009): The song glamorizes alcohol-fueled hookups in a way that blurs the line around consent, and encourages people to blame reckless behavior on being drunk. The melody is catchy, but if you listen to the words, you'll probably never want to listen to the song again. So I'm here to say.......please never listen to this song again.
Rick Ross's verse on "U.O.E.N.O." by Rocko (2013): In his verse, Rick Ross describes giving a roofie to a woman, bragging about how he "enjoyed that" (insinuating sex) while she's unconscious. Ross issued an apology after facing backlash for the lyric, but it was initially still okayed by a music label, and for that, it's pretty unforgivable.
"Facts" by Tom MacDonald and Ben Shapiro (2024): This 'MAGA rap' track by MacDonald and ring-wing commentator Shapiro attacks progressive culture, They have a "problem" with the LGBTQIA+ community using different pronouns, people being pro-abortion rights instead of anti-abortion, and anything else that a pro-Trump supporter might otherwise "disagree with."
"Shut Up and Swallow" by Combichrist (2007): This song seems to revel in a woman's pain while she performs oral sex on a man. He's mad at her for some unknown reason, so he hopes she's "gagging" and "choking" on him (which....is pretty damn gruesome).
"Runaway Baby" by Bruno Mars (2010): This singer has been a hit machine ever since he came on the scene. But "Runaway Baby" and its implications feel too problematic to ignore. In this song, he wants to be with a girl, by any means necessary, no matter if she's interested or not. And that is NOT okay.
"Vultures" by Ye, Ty Dolla Sign, Bump J, and Lil Durk (2023): It's sufficient to say that anything Ye has released in the past seven years is problematic. His verse on "Vultures" speak for themselves — they're deeply anti-semitic, and he doesn't take accountability for being so.
"D.R.U.G.S." by Iggy Azalea and YG (2011): Azalea — a white woman — rapping "I'm a runaway slave master, shittin' on the past" is supremely insensitive and racist. It's no wonder this song doesn't hold up today, and frankly, never will.
"Ur So Gay" by Katy Perry (2007): There's a crass undertone (or overtone?) in this Katy Perry song because she implies you're "gay" if you're "annoying." It's a limited perspective and disrespects anyone who's in the LGBTQIA+ community.
"Grrrls" by Lizzo (2022): Lizzo has since changed the lyrics after facing backlash for using "spaz" in her song. But, it still doesn't ignore the fact that she used it in the first place.
"Tron Cat" by Tyler, the Creator (2011): I would argue that a lotttttt of Tyler, the Creator's music is problematic, especially this song. Like Eminem, he describes a beyond baffling situation where he physically abuses a woman, and he'll "get it done" no matter what.
"Villuminati" by J. Cole (2013): In this song, J. Cole throws anti-gay slurs around like it's his full-time job. There are at least three instances of a derogatory word used, which obviously didn't need to be included...there's a whole dictionary out there, my dude. Use it.
"Roman Reloaded" by Nicki Minaj (2012): Minaj casually name-checks the Columbine High School shooting — a national tragedy where children were murdered — to imply she'd kill some "hoes." That should be enough to never want to listen to it ever again.
"Let's Get Ret*rded" by the Black Eyed Peas (2004): The problematic nature is in the title itself, disrespecting a community that was notoriously made fun of in the 2000s. The Black Eyed Peas released a clean version, titled "Let's Get It Started," but still — the original version exists, and it definitely doesn't hold up in 2025.
"Daughters" by John Mayer (2003): This narrow view of a woman's worth in the world makes "Daughters" just an insufferable song. John Mayer believes that women can only be "mothers" and "lovers," AKA just play a role in relation to a man/someone else.
"If I Want To" by Usher (2001): Like "Runaway Baby" by Bruno Mars, this Usher song is a clear sign that a man doesn't care how a woman feels. If he's attracted to her, he will do anything to "make her his," brushing off any "misunderstandings." "If I Want To" is problematic at best.
And finally, "Blurred Lines" by Robin Thicke, Pharrell, and T.I. (2013): If you're tired of the discourse around this problematic song, then I'm sorry, but.......I'm not sorry. Why? Because Robin Thicke, Pharrell, and T.I. imply that a woman "wants a man" just because she's "paying attention to him." If she's talking to him or dancing with him, he assumes he can "have his way with her." They distract from the disturbing message of this song with a catchy beat, fooling listeners everywhere. A horrible use of lyric and melody, if you ask me.
Let's flip the script a little here, folks: What's a problematic song from the '80s and '90s you can't believe was ever recorded? Share with us in the comments below.
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Genre-bending act Bilmuri brings their unique fusion of post-hardcore and pop sensibilities while closes the stage with his innovative yet nostalgic approach to indie-rock that feels indebted to the synthy pop of the '80s and the bedroom pop of late aughts. Something Else: Doechii isn't the only eclectic rapper performing on Saturday. Rapper Barrington Hendricks, who performs as JPEGMAFIA, is set to perform on the Lakeshore stage. Fans should expect selections from 2024's 'I LAY DOWN MY LIFE FOR YOU' (featuring the incredible 'either on or off the drugs' and 'I'll Be Right There') and his latest record, 'Veteran: Director's Cut.' Released in June, the record is the next step in the musician's glitchy, sharp-witted sound. Not to Miss: Sabrina Carpenter; Finneas; The Marias It may seem like Sabrina Carpenter just blew up overnight, but the pop musician has been slowly grinding on the fringes of the industry for more than a decade. First known as a child star on the Disney Channel television show 'Girl Meets World,' Carpenter released five records before her breakout album, 2024's 'Short N' Sweet.' Led by her single 'Espresso,' last year's undisputed 'Song of the Summer,' the record hinted at what's next for Carpenter's career. Blending elements of country twang on tracks like 'Please, Please, Please,' with late '90s, vibe-heavy, R&B-inspired grooves on 'Bed Chem,' the record was a bite-size feast for the ears. If the album cover is any indication, her next record, 'Man's Best Friend,' is sure to ruffle feathers. But the record's first single, 'Manchild,' is a sonic smash-up of her perfect melodies and her ever-emerging country leanings. She performs on the T-Mobile stage. He's more than just his sister's biggest collaborator. On his latest record, 'For Cryin' Out Loud,' musician and producer Finneas embraced a more collaborative approach to his music. Gone are the solo, bedroom pop sounds of his debut. Later this year, the musician will release another record, but this time as part of the band The Favors, which features musician Ashe. We don't know if this Lolla set will feature any of this upcoming music (which has a more Fleetwood Mac-inspired rock sound to it), but it'll surely traverse his already rich body of work. He performs on the Lakeshore stage. 'Submarine,' The Marias' latest album released last year, proves breakup records will always have a place in the hearts of listeners. Traversing the dissolution of the relationship between band co-founders Maria Zardoya and Josh Conway, the record is a tender, sonically piercing feat that blends Latin instrumentals with hazy rhythms. Earlier this year, the group released 'Back to Me,' an ominous, synth-heavy wall-of-sound about yearning for a past lover. For listeners, it seems like the complicated dynamic between Zardoya and Conway is not yet over. Their Lolla set on the Bud Light stage is part of a larger tour, which has gained new fans around the country for their vibrant live performances. Best Stage: The day flourishes with global pop sensation Katseye, the multi-national girl group whose infectious energy and polished choreography have made them streaming darlings (and social media) phenomena. Their set is early in the afternoon at the T-Mobile stage, and sure to attract a large crowd, but that shouldn't deter you from checking them out. When they inevitably reach superstar status, you'll have bragging rights for saying you caught them 'back then,' before they took over the world. Later, hip-hop veteran Isaiah Rashad brings his laid-back flow. Actor and alternative darling Dominic Fike follows and pop princess Sabrina Carpenter closes the night with her theatrical, charming performance style. Something Else: The appearance of viral internet sensation Aliyah's Interlude on the BMI stage is a surprising choice for Lolla bookers, but not surprising. The festival often includes an off-kilter choice or two, and Aliyah's Interlude fits the bill this year. While she hasn't released a full-length record yet, the rapper has released a number of house music-inspired singles, including 'IT GIRL,' her fun and campy debut. New songs like 'WTF MY DRINK @?' lean into her signature party-girl vibes, but this time with a more ominous tone that at times reminds me of Doechii and Azealia Banks. She may have gained attention for her club-driven fashion choices, but it's clear Aliyah's Interlude is more than just her fabulous style. For entry: Lollapalooza 2025 will take place at Grant Park on July 31-Aug. 3. Gates open each day at 11 a.m. and close at 10 p.m. Maingates are located at Michigan Avenue and Ida B. Wells Drive and North Gate on Monroe and Columbus. Guests are required to have a festival wristband for entry and re-entry and can leave and re-enter the festival two times after entering. Children 8 years old and under may attend for free while accompanied by a ticket-holding adult (limit two per adult). Stages include Bud Light, T-Mobile, Lakeshore, Perry's and The Grove, along with the BMI stage, Tito's Handmade Vodka and Kidzapalooza. Each day's primary headliners perform on the Bud Light and T-Mobile stages, with Perry's featuring electronic acts. Updates: For up-to-date information from the festival, follow on Facebook, X and Instagram at @lollapalooza, on the Lollapalooza website, with the Lollapalooza app via Festiverse or through festival emails. Bag Policy: All bags will be searched before entry. Small clutch purses and fanny packs that are 6 inches by 9 inches or smaller do not need to be clear, but can have no more than one pocket. All other bags must be smaller than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches and clear. Hydration packs are allowed and do not need to be clear, but must be emptied of all liquid and with no more than two main compartments and one smaller compartment. Our top 10 tips for attending Lollapalooza 2024Lockers: Lockers are available for rent, as are phone chargers. More information available on the festival website. Safety: Lollapalooza has a zero-tolerance policy for harassment, including harassment based on race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, body size, appearance, age or national origin. Lollapalooza encourages patrons to contact staff if they feel threatened or unsafe in any way. Patrons in need of emergency medical assistance can go to one of the available medical tents. Lollapalooza has partnered with This Must Be the Place, an overdose prevention nonprofit, that will supply patrons with Naloxone, an opioid reversal medicine, and offer education on Fentanyl. Lost & Found: Located at the main Guest Services Tent at Columbus and Ida B Wells, and you can also visit Also, register your phone with the festival and you will receive a QR code so that festival staff can contact you. Accessibility: Trained service miniature horses or dogs are allowed on festival grounds to provide assistance to individuals with a disability. Patrons with service animals should use the accessible lane at either entrance. American Sign Language interpreted music performances are available for patrons who are deaf or hard of hearing. A full schedule of interpreted performances will be released closer to the festival date. Upon arrival, guests who require accessible viewing areas should visit the Access Center for information on the accessibility wristband program. This provides the guest plus one patron access to the accessible viewing or deaf and hard of hearing areas. The wristband does not guarantee a spot and availability is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Wheelchairs, power wheelchairs, and three or four-wheeled scooters are allowed only for use by patrons with mobility disabilities. Powered wheelchairs can be charged at the Access Center. Accessible portable toilets are located at the ends of each group of portable toilets as well as at accessible viewing platforms. Accessible festival entry lanes are available at each entrance. Anyone needing prescription medicine must present the pharmacy-labeled container that states the prescription, dosage, and patient name to medical staff at each entrance gate. Patrons are only allowed a sufficient supply of the prescribed medication for that day. Over-the-counter medications are allowed in a sufficient supply for the day. Bottle contents will be verified by medical personnel at the entry gates.
