40 years ago, 'Like a Virgin' was enjoying a six week stay at the top of the US charts. It was written and composed by Tom Kelly and Billy Steinberg, then sent to Madonna who instantly loved the provocative themes and selected it to lead her second album. One of Madonna's most notable songs, 'Like a Virgin' is recognised as the one that turned her into a global superstar; not only did it become Madonna's first to reach #1 in the US, it topped the Australian and Canadian charts, as well as the Top 10 in most of its charting territories. The performance on the first MTV Video Music Awards has gone down as one of the most unforgettable and iconic in the show's history.

 

Share your thoughts and memories of 'Like a Virgin' below!

 

 

It's a fabulous, immaculately produced classic pop single. I do love hearing it on a night out!

 

I'd like to say I remember it from the time, but I wasn't born yet :lol:

It's such an amazing song. I just love it a lot. :dance:

It really was the perfect song for Madonna to launch her second album with; having established her sound through the clubs and teased a sexy, self-assured image through interviews and her music videos, 'Like a Virgin' just embodies all of that. It's clearly provocative yet sweet and light, very easy to enjoy and sing along to. I can see why Madonna was instantly drawn to the song and how it became such a global smash. For me, there are many other Madonna songs I prefer but I can't deny it's a well-crafted pop song and it is a lot of fun when I do listen to it.

 

The live performances are where this song really comes alive. I do like that - probably due to her own boredom of the song - Madonna keeps it fresh with new arrangements each tour. Through the years, we've had samples of 'Billie Jean' and 'I Can't Help Myself' incorporated, Middle Eastern productions, Marlene Dietrich homages, acoustic, disco, waltz... you name it! These two are my favourites: