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BuzzJack Music Forum _ Madonna _ Borderline ● 35 Years

Posted by: Medellíam Jun 5 2019, 02:30 PM

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It has been 35 years since 'Borderline', fifth and final single from Madonna's debut album, was first released in the UK. The song was brought to the recording sessions by Reggie Lucas and later remixed by John "Jellybean" Benitez, forming what Madonna considered as the foundation to her album and what Sire Records boss, Seymour Stein, thought could be "huge beyond belief". From its twinkly electric piano intro, 'Borderline' evokes a sentimental and nostalgic feel whilst Madonna's expressive vocal offers truth and soul as she shares the torment of unfulfilled love. It captures the spirit of Madonna's pop appeal and acts as one of the first building blocks to her becoming the biggest female artist in the industry.

Stein's gut instinct upon hearing 'Borderline' was realised when it eventually peaked at #10 on the Billboard Hot 100, Madonna's first Top 10, following months of ascending the chart. The UK would have to wait until the start of 1986 for the song to become a hit when it reached #2 upon re-release, helped greatly by MTV's support of the music video. It was the first of Madonna's collaborations with Mary Lambert and gives a taste of what was to come with its depiction of interracial relationships and Madonna's classic fashion sense.

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Posted by: vibe Jun 5 2019, 04:42 PM

I love that fallon performance . Add to tour-list please.

Posted by: HausofTove Jun 5 2019, 08:47 PM

One of my favourite Madonna songs! What a joyous masterpiece

Posted by: Jonjo Jun 5 2019, 11:45 PM

I love this one. BUTTTTT whenever I hear it in my head, it's the Glee mash-up with 'Open Your Heart'... the two go ridiculously well together

Posted by: dandy* Jun 6 2019, 08:17 AM

Easily my favourite of the tracks from her early days

I've never heard the version performed on the Tonight Show before, it really works!

Posted by: Medellíam Jun 8 2019, 09:51 AM

The melody of 'Borderline' is gorgeous and it's a great early example of Madonna being able to elevate the lyrics beyond their potential if in someone else's hands.

It's such a warm and familiar track and that comes through during the Tonight Show performance. It's lovely seeing a performance where it's just about the music, yet Madonna's charisma still shines through.