Madonna is known the world over as the Queen of Pop. Her incredible music and videos shaped the MTV generation. Throughout the eighties and nineties, she helped shape pop culture into how we see it today. She is the best selling female artist of all time
But aside from the music and videos, Madonna has earned a reputation as an amazing live performer. Her concert tours have broken records and tickets have sold out in record time. Her 2008-2009 Sticky & Sweet Tour became the highest grossing solo tour by a female artist. Here is a look at Madonna's top 10 tour performances that will always be historic.
10. "Music" (Drowned World Tour)
Compared to other tours, the performance of "Music" on the 2001 Drowned World Tour is surprisingly simple. However, it also offers a retrospective of Madonna's incredible past while proving she's still dominating the music scene.
9. "Everybody Is a Star/Everybody" (The Girlie Show World Tour)
Madonna previously payed homage to Sly & The Family Stone on her 1990 Blond Ambition Tour. She sang "Family Affair" before going into her own song "Keep It Together." On her 1993 Girlie Show, Madonna again payed tribute by incorporating "Everybody Is a Star" into her own hit "Everybody." If you listen closely, you'll hear references to other classic songs as well.
8. "Like a Virgin" (Blond Ambition World Tour)
In her 1991 tour documentary, "Truth Or Dare," this performance was subject to controversy. On the Toronto stop of the Blond Ambition Tour, Madonna was threatened with arrest if she touched herself during the performance. This particular number, and the song's arrangement, is further proof of Madonna's impeccable vision and ear.
7. "Gambler" (The Virgin Tour)
One of her most underrated and underappreciated singles, "Gambler," was a highlight of her first concert tour. On The Virgin Tour, Madonna played to audiences packed with young girls dressed in her iconic style. Dubbed "wannabes," these girls wore everything from Madonna's signature bracelets to lace gloves and beaded necklaces.
6. "Open Your Heart" (Who's That Girl World Tour)
The opening of Madonna's highly successful Who's That Girl Tour stands out among her best live moments. From the first look at her posing silhouette to her chemistry with 13-year old dancer Chris Finch, this is a brilliantly executed performance. It also makes for one of the best live interpretations of one of Madonna's biggest hits.
5. "Rain" (The Girlie Show World Tour)
Madonna always had brilliant chemistry with her two background singers, Niki Haris and Donna De Lory. The three shared the stage during many of Madonna's tours during the height of her fame. This performance of "Rain" beautifully personifies their bond and talent. It was such a highlight, that Niki and Donna recently recorded a new version of the song.
4. "Express Yourself" (Blond Ambition World Tour)
This performance captured what is perhaps the most iconic image of Madonna. The Jean Paul Gautier-designed cone bra was made famous by Madonna on this tour. The song "Express Yourself" carried an empowering element, which is definitely captured in this performance. It was a bold statement that empowered many of her fans, especially women and gay men.
3. "Like a Prayer" (Blond Ambition World Tour)
Catholicism has been a recurring theme in Madonna's work. This performance of "Like a Prayer" displayed a theatrical element not seen previously in pop performances. Normally, artists would have their band and dancers on stage without anything else. This time, however, Madonna had the whole stage set up like a church. While this level of theatricality might be the norm today, it was new territory at the time.
2. "La Isla Bonita" (The Girlie Show World Tour)
Madonna definitely had the best live band backing her during the 1993 Girlie Show Tour. During this performance of her hit "La Isla Bonita," the perfection of the musicality is embodied beautifully. From the music to the background vocals, this interpretation of the song is one of the best. Plus, Madonna delivers great vocals and excellent choreography as well.
1. "Erotica" (The Confessions Tour)
The song "Erotica" originally had a completely different chorus with completely different lyrics. Dubbed by fans as "You Thrill Me," it had long been discussed online. During her 2006 Confessions Tour, Madonna stunned the audience not only by singing "Erotica," but by incorporating the song's original lyrics. This performance has lived on as a true fan-favorite and one of the strongest highlights of her entire touring career.
