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[Liam.k.]

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.