Madonna's Spiritual Evolution and Musical Innovation

TIME Magazine once said, “there are few figures more closely associated with religion in pop culture than Madonna.” And looking at her catalog, it’s hard to disagree. From cheeky double entendres on “Like A Prayer,” to explorations of alternative philosophies on Ray of Light, spiritual practice has always been a core aspect of Madonna’s work. And as she dips her toes in different ideologies, she eventually comes to mold her own special religion in the process.

On our final episode of our week-long Listening 2 Madonna series, we take a look at the third essential part of Madonna’s holy trinity: spirituality.

Songs discussed:

• Madonna – "Like A Prayer"
• Madonna – "American Life"
• Sister Cristina – "Like A Virgin"
• Ray Charles – "What I'd Say"
• Madonna – "Live to Tell"
• Madonna – "Oh Father"
• Madonna – "X-Static Process"
• Madonna – "Bedtime Story"
• Björk – "Hyperballad"
• Madonna – "Ray of Light"
• Madonna – "Nothing Really Matters"
• Madonna – "The Power of Good-bye"
• Madonna – "Sky Fits Heaven"
• Madonna – "Shanti / Ashtangi"
• Addison Rae – "Aquamarine"
• Madonna – "Vogue"
• Madonna – "Music"
• Madonna – "Isaac"
• Madonna – "Like It Or Not"
• Madonna – "Get Together"

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