In Maryland, it is illegal to play Randy Newman's song "Short People" on the radio. This quirky law has been in place for decades, dating back to when the song was first released in 1977. The lyrics of "Short People" sparked controversy due to their satirical nature, poking fun at individuals of shorter stature.

Despite the song's catchy melody and Newman's signature style, Maryland lawmakers deemed it offensive and discriminatory towards individuals of shorter height. As a result, radio stations in the state are prohibited from playing "Short People" on air to avoid potential backlash or complaints from listeners.

While the law may seem outdated and unusual, it serves as a reminder of the power of music to provoke strong emotions and opinions. Songs like "Short People" can be polarizing, with some finding them humorous and others finding them offensive. In the case of Maryland, the decision to ban the song from radio airplay reflects a desire to protect the sensitivities of certain individuals.

For radio stations operating in Maryland, it is important to be aware of this unusual restriction and to comply with the law to avoid any potential legal issues. While it may seem like a trivial matter, violating the ban on playing "Short People" could result in fines or other penalties for broadcasters.

Overall, the prohibition on playing Randy Newman's "Short People" in Maryland serves as a reminder of the need to consider the impact of music and lyrics on listeners. While freedom of expression is important, it is also important to be mindful of the potential consequences of sharing content that may be deemed offensive or controversial.

So, if you find yourself in Maryland and happen to hear "Short People" playing on the radio, you can rest assured that it is a rare occurrence and likely a violation of state law. In the meantime, there are plenty of other great songs to enjoy that won't land you in hot water with the authorities!

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