Alice Cooper Talks About Dealing with Censorship During Performances

During the Seventies, Alice Cooper’s band was considered a controversial and provocative force in society. The group challenged social norms with their gruesome stage presence and dark aesthetic that stood out during the glam rock era. Embodying an anti-establishment vibe, the band’s lead singer donned terrifying makeup and delivered eerie lyrics that defied conventional rock star personas.

Their performance of “School’s Out” on Top of the Pops in 1972 sparked outrage among moral campaigners like Mary Whitehouse, who deemed their music as promoting violence and anarchy. Despite the backlash, the band’s popularity soared, with their hit reaching number one on the charts. Cooper’s theatrics, including acts like being guillotined, tortured, or wrapped in a live boa constrictor, only added fuel to the fire of public controversy.

Their explicit lyrics, such as “I Love the Dead,” led to calls for the band’s banishment from the UK by politicians like Leo Abse, who viewed their content as morally corrupt and a threat to young listeners. Despite the criticism, Alice Cooper found unlikely admiration from Salvador Dalí and influenced prominent musicians like Roxy Music and David Bowie.

The band’s iconic makeup style, later known as “corpsepaint,” became a defining feature of extreme metal culture, ensuring their lasting impact on music history. However, after releasing seven albums in four years, the band disbanded due to exhaustion, leaving behind a legacy of success and provocation.

Alice Cooper, as the band’s frontman, continued his career as a solo artist, blending theatrical concepts with commercial hits. Despite the separation, the original band members maintained a strong friendship, reuniting for appearances on stage and in the studio. Their recent collaboration with producer Bob Ezrin in 2021 reignited their creative spark, despite initial doubts about the project’s success.

The band members’ dedication to their art remains steadfast, embodying the spirit of Detroit rock alongside bands like the Stooges and the MC5. Their influence transcends generations, proving that their impact goes beyond mere horror rock. The original Alice Cooper band’s legacy lives on, challenging societal norms and leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.