This album is the pop diva’s third album of her career, and spurned a number of hits, dashing critics who said Madonna was just another run of the mill singer who would come and go. Now past her 50s, the sexy songstress still manages to bring in a crowd wherever she may perform.

This eight track album, brought out 4 pieces that I would tune in over and over again. Papa Don't Preach was a more mature sound and lyrically more adult oriented than her earlier work. The song probably comes from her own experience with her own father, but certainly covers the topic of teenage pregnancy in a neat way. It’s a perfect serving of 80s pop. Madonna’s vocals are strong here, perhaps stronger than her vocals had ever been until this album came along. The striking Live To Tell was not only her first single, but a statement in and of itself. The ballad had some though provoking lyrics that left you pondering. Words like “If I ran away, I'd never have the strength to go very far………” were emotionally charged, with her voice adding the allure to an already sassy ballad. These two tracks are probably the best of the lot on this album, but two more also are pretty memorable.

The robust and groovy Open Your Heart was punchy and had its flavor of making you hit the dance floor. But it was the timeless Latin American infused piece La Isla Bonita that would sweep you off your feet. The song was on everyone lips, what with its catchy Spanish guitar melody and dance beats. The synth and lyrics play a tremendous role in shaping up this song. It had loads of percussion, Spanish guitar, and great vocals from Madonna. It’s a simple song, but the switch to this genre really shows how Madonna, young as she was, could make the switch from bubbly pop to a Latino twist. And that’s the top four on the album.

However her other tracks on the album Jimmy Jimmy, White Heat, Where’s the Party and Love Makes The World Go Round were fillers which we would give a fair audition and infact a miss.

This album is probably the defining moment in Madonna’s career – turning her into a credible artist. Unsurprisingly this album became the biggest selling album in the world in 1986, and is the biggest selling album of the 1980s by a woman.

Release Date: March 9, 1986

Label: Sire

Rating: ****

Reviewed by Verus Ferreira