‘#15: “In the Air Tonight” by Phil Collins

Phil Collins’ In the Air Tonight, a haunting rock classic, faced unexpected radio bans in 1991 and 2001. Despite its lyrics having no explicit political or violent themes, broadcasters deemed its ominous tone and perceived Middle Eastern references too sensitive during major conflicts.

During the Gulf War, stations pulled it to avoid unsettling listeners, and following 9/11, Clear Channel temporarily restricted it again. Ironically, the song’s enduring mystique and powerful drum break only grew in legend. Despite these bans, In the Air Tonight remains one of Collins’ most iconic tracks.