George Michael's video "I Want Your Sex" caused quite a controversy when it was released in 1987. The explicit lyrics and suggestive content raised eyebrows, especially among conservative groups. MTV, known for pushing boundaries but also having certain standards, initially refused to air the video. However, after multiple re-edits, they finally agreed to show it.

The video was re-edited a total of seven times before MTV deemed it suitable for broadcast. Each round of edits aimed at toning down the sexual imagery and making it more palatable for a wider audience. This process was not an easy one, as George Michael had a clear vision for the video and wanted to maintain its artistic integrity.

One of the main reasons MTV was hesitant to air "I Want Your Sex" was due to its overtly sexual content. The network had been known to shy away from controversial and explicit material, and this video was no exception. George Michael, on the other hand, believed that the song and its accompanying visuals were meant to challenge societal norms and explore the complexities of human desire.

With each re-edit, the more explicit scenes were replaced or altered. Some shots were shortened or removed entirely, while others were strategically blurred or obscured. The goal was to find a balance between George Michael's creative vision and MTV's standards and practices.

After numerous discussions and negotiations, the final version of the video was aired on MTV. While it still contained some sensual imagery, it was significantly toned down compared to its original form. The compromise allowed George Michael's message to reach a wider audience without compromising his artistic integrity.

Despite the controversy, "I Want Your Sex" became a major hit and solidified George Michael's status as a boundary-pushing artist. The video's initial ban by MTV only fueled curiosity and ultimately contributed to its success. It remains an iconic moment in music history, highlighting the ongoing struggle between artistic expression and censorship.

In conclusion, George Michael's video for "I Want Your Sex" underwent seven rounds of re-editing before MTV finally agreed to show it. Through compromises and negotiations, the video was able to maintain its artistic integrity while also conforming to the network's standards. This controversy ultimately added to the video's success and cemented George Michael's reputation as an artist unafraid to push boundaries.

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