It’s officially the month of December which means, whether you like it or not, you’re probably listening to a heck of a lot of holiday music. While it’s a tradition that lots of folks love, it’s not often that we sit back and spend time analyzing the lyrics to the tunes. After all, Christmas music is pretty family-friendly and benign, right?
Well, while we’d agree for the most part, one that is beginning to cause a lot of controversies is none other than the iconic holiday standard, “Baby, It’s Cold Outside.”
The song, which was written in 1944 is a Christmas favorite, but Cleveland radio station WDOK has pulled it from its schedule, citing the #MeToo movement and listener complaints as inspiration for the decision.
Confused about the censorship? Then, let’s take a moment read over some of the lyrics.
The neighbors might think (Baby it’s bad out there)
Say what’s in this drink? (No cabs to be had out there)
I wish I knew how (Your eyes are like starlight now)
To break this spell (I’ll take your hat, your hair looks swell) (Why thank you)
I ought to say no, no, no sir (Mind if move in closer?)
At least I’m gonna say that I tried (What’s the sense of hurtin’ my pride?)
I really can’t stay (Baby don’t hold out)
Baby it’s cold outside
Yikes, right?!
Though we don’t think Christmas is as “Christmas-y” without the song, we have to agree that “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” is wrought with problematic lyrics. Perhaps the tune is up for a lyrical revamp??
To hear what WDOK DJ Desiray has to say about the “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” ban, and to hear a Cleveland rape clinic’s hot take on the decision, be sure to watch the video below. Luckily, there are a lot of other great holiday songs to listen to instead of this controversial one. (Well, except for THESE awful tunes!)
We’d love to hear your thoughts on this holiday song ban. Do you think that “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” should be barred from the airwaves? Do you think it’s a holiday song tradition that should be here to stay? What’s your all-time favorite holiday tune?