2008
Justin Timberlake
Madonna reset pop boundaries by demolishing them, boldly redefining what it means to be a rock star. Combining streetwise dance music with cutting-edge fashion and video savvy, she brazenly took on cultural taboos, including religion, sexuality and politics, proving art could be both controversial and commercially successful. At the core of it all was a genius for irresistible melody and intoxicating rhythm, and an ability to shapeshift while remaining relatably down-to-earth.
Induction
Impact
Signature Sound
Fearless Shape-Shifting Pop Icon
Madonna’s sound evolution began with ‘80s synth-pop, morphing quickly into R&B, rock and lush ballads. In the ‘90s, she incorporated house, electronica and industrial textures, moving into EDM in the ‘00s. Through constant risk and reinvention, her music always succeeded in animating the dancefloor, whatever the decade.
Co-written with producer Stephen Bray, it hit No. 1 on U.K. charts while the re-release of ‘83’s “Holiday” took the No. 2 spot.
From the Museum
Like a Virgin inTop Hat & Tails
Madonna’s outfit during the “Weimar Cabaret” third segment of her ‘93 Girlie Show world tour was inspired by Marlene Dietrich and the ‘72 film Cabaret.
Wearing the getup to sing “Like a Virgin,” Madonna pronounced the word “virgin” as “wirgin” as a nod to Dietrich. Designers Dolce & Gabbana created 1,500 costumes for the tour.
From the Museum
Like a Virgin inTop Hat & Tails
Madonna’s outfit during the “Weimar Cabaret” third segment of her ‘93 Girlie Show world tour was inspired by Marlene Dietrich and the ‘72 film Cabaret.
Wearing the getup to sing “Like a Virgin,” Madonna pronounced the word “virgin” as “wirgin” as a nod to Dietrich. Designers Dolce & Gabbana created 1,500 costumes for the tour.
She’s a brilliant pop songwriter and a great hitmaker. She has written some of the best pop songs, without a doubt.
Elton John
2008 hall of fame essay
"‘Madonna the music maker’ has proved to be a more deep and enduring role than any of the individual headlines or scandals that made her career such a juicy blast."
– Jim Farber
Influence
Madonna
Lady Gaga
Beyoncé
Katy Perry
Britney Spears
Christina Aguilera
Rihanna
Nicki Minaj
Sabrina Carpenter
sealed with a signature
This is the signature that appears on the inductee’s plaque at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to officially commemorate their induction.
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