Madonna: Like a Prayer

In 1989 pop queen Madonna had a huge super hit with this single "Like a Prayer" as the words were moving, yet the music video was eye popping causing a stir that "MTV" would only air at later times! It's themes of religion and race shook many as it shows a black man as a suspect in front of a church, as a murder committed was put on him! And Madonna pushed the limits with the gospel showing wounds and blood on her hands like that of the crucifixion! Need I say more as the material girl really pushed the limits and boundaries of expression.

Since the cracks began forming in her career, Madonna has not maintained the best reputation. On the other hand, unlike Madonna's public perception & appearance, this song remains timeless & pristine. Brilliantly poetic & beautifully recorded, "Like a Prayer" is arguably her career masterpiece.

It's disappointing that the music video wasn't made to be equally immortal.

The storyline is vague & difficult to follow, if there is anything to follow. Madonna lip-syncs to only some of the lyrics, while other times she seems oblivious to the music. The choir detracts rather than adds, creating unnecessary depth, enthusiasm, & exoticism to the sound. Most, if not all this, falls on the director, not Madonna herself. I'm sorry to say that I can't rate this higher than a 5/10.

I always heard that this music video was controversial and I can see why, for the early 80s. But I love Madonna for it, the subject is impactful, fits the song, and still holds true to this day.

After three decades, the music, the video are only significant. Both - more seductive for the clear noble message, for the gospel choir, for the sensuality perceived as symbols chain. Provocative ? Off course, it is a Madonna song ! But important is the precise way to define the violence and racism and to remind the love as basic trait of Christianity. So, beautiful.