Song of the Week: 'Vogue' by Madonna

This week in 1990, Madonna reached number one with 'Vogue'. This song was inspired by a dance craze which was popular in the gay community at the time called Vogueing. Vogueing is all about hand and arm movements and stopping to strike a pose. Before this song was released the only thing people associated with the word Vogue was the magazine, however, post-release Vogueing became even more popular in all club scenes not just in the gay community.

In the music video for 'Vogue' Madonna danced alongside the "House Of Extravaganza," a group of New York City dancers who became the go-to dance group in showcasing the 'Vouge' craze in TV and talk-shows as the dance became popular.

Something interesting about Madonna's hit single was how she name dropped iconic people from the past, who all had their own identity and each were independent in their own way.

First she mentions Greta Garbo, an icon from the silent Film era. Second, Marilyn Monroe, the most popular sex symbol of the 1950's (we all remember that skirt photo!). Third, Marlene Dietrich, German-american actress and singer, followed by Jo DiMaggio, New York Yankees player and Monroe's husband. Next come Marlon Brando and James Dean who were both famous for their acting roles over the years with Brando starring in films such as the Godfather and Dean known for his brooding looks. Grace Kelly comes next, Golden Globe winning actress who retired and married the Prince of Monaco, hence becoming a princess. Jean Harlowe follows her, she was Hollywood's original Blonde Bombshell who died an untimely death, cutting short her career. The next three are all extremely famous dancer/actors, Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire and Ginger Rodgers. The final few are all famous female actresses from the 30's and 40's, Rita Hayworth, Lauren Bacall, Katharine Hepburn, Lana Turner and Bette Davis.

These final five are all strong women with long and successful careers, you can see why Madonna may want to include them. All of these historical figures are all glamorous icons who fit perfectly within the content and the aesthetic of this infamous song.

So go what are you waiting for? Give it a listen and why not try out Vogueing for yourself?!