Considered by many to be the Material Girl's most mature effort of the 1980s, Like a Prayer upped the ante of controversy with its gospel-infused title track and the singer's emotional confessions throughout. It also unveiled the hit "Express Yourself", which ushered in the era of Madonna as a "stainless steel sexual icon". Musically, Prayer showcased her burgeoning songwriting prowess, with the beautiful "Oh Father" and the perky pop of "Cherish". Besides a throw-away collaboration with Prince ("This Is Not a Love Song"), the album stands as one of her strongest works, eschewing the strong dance beat influences from her past--she saved that for the remixes--and concentrating instead on melody and structure. Like a Prayer also gave a hint of things to come with the delightful "Dear Jessie" displaying a maternal side worthy of her name. -- Steve Gdula
Track Listing
Like A Prayer Love Song Promise To Try Dear Jessie Keep It Together Act Of Contrition Express Yourself Till Death Do Us Part Cherish Oh Father Spanish Eyes
