September 7th 1983 saw 'Holiday' released as the third single from 'Madonna' in the US. One of the last songs recorded for the album, it was written by Curtis Hudson and Lisa Stevens-Crowder as a response to negative TV news headlines. John "Jellybean" Benitez - who would produce the song - approached the writers and encouraged them to offer it to Madonna; initially reluctant to do so, they changed their minds after meeting with Madonna. 'Holiday' was a hit with the critics, who praised its infectious disco sound and universal message, and was Madonna's big breakthrough on the charts, reaching the Top 10 in Australia, Germany, Netherlands, New Zealand and UK, as well as #16 in the US. The song would be re-issued twice in the UK: once in 1985 when it reached #2 (held off the top spot by Madonna's own 'Into the Groove') and in 1991 as part of 'The Holiday Collection' EP when it reached #5.

 

40 years on, what are your thoughts on this Madonna classic?

Such a classic , infectious pop at its best!!

 

I hear it so much i dont have to choose to play it!

It's just amazing song and a classic too. I just love it a lot.

A big feel good debut :dance:

I never think I like this one very much and I never choose to play it - but then when I do hear it I find myself enjoying it and smiling, it's basic but it's also quite infectious

 

I agree that it's basic and also agree it's infectious and I enjoy it.

Good song, but from debut album I prefer "Lucky Star".

Edited September 19, 20231 yr by Last Dreamer

I really enjoy it, it's not one of my ultimate Madonna go-tos but it's been a lifelong classic for me and it always brightens my mood. Best bit: those drums towards the end on the album version!

While not my favourite on the debut it is a staple in so many ways. A huge signature hit of not only Madonna but the decade as a whole. I love it every time I hear it. Joyous, escapism, joy!

I really enjoy it, it's not one of my ultimate Madonna go-tos but it's been a lifelong classic for me and it always brightens my mood.

Yeah this is how I view it too. Not one I immediately think of listening to when I'm in the mood for some Madonna music, but it's got an undeniably feel-good quality to it and you can't help but feel like your spirit has been lifted when you hear it. The song, both in its lyrics and production, is basically one long hook.

 

I think Madonna has relied on it a bit too much as an encore moment on her tours, but there is two performances that really stand out for me:

 

 

Holiday is a good song.

It is not her best but it is a classic Madonna single.