Madonna, Vogue | Bangerz N Bopz 🔥

In the 55th edition of Bangerz N Bopz 🔥 (2025), we highlight “Vogue,” one of the greatest gay anthems of all time, performed by pop icon Madonna.

Bring on the bold, fierce songs! Bangerz N Bopz 🔥 serves up background info and insight into songs of various styles, especially songs that raise eyebrows and stir the pot.  Featured records can be classic or brand new. In the 55^th  edition of Bangerz N Bopz 🔥 (2025), we break down “Vogue” performed by Madonna.

“Strike a pose / Strike a pose / Vogue (vogue, vogue) / Vogue (vogue, vogue).” When you think gay anthem, one of the first songs that comes to mind is “Vogue” by Madonna (1958 – ).  Although she is not a member of the LGBTQ+ community, the iconic, Grammy-winning musician secured her status as a gay icon with “Vogue,” PERIOD. Why is this a gay anthem? It is fueled by voguing, which developed in the 1980s and evolved from the New York City ballroom scene.  The song masterfully captures the spirit of the gay club scene and takes it to the pop charts!  Woo! “Vogue” appears on Madge’s 1990 album, I’m Breathless (Music from and Inspired by the Film Dick Tracy), as well as the compilation, The Immaculate Collection. Among her biggest and greatest hits, it also graces her marvelous, two-disc greatest hits compilation, Celebration, released in 2009.

Madonna wrote and produced “Vogue” with producer Shep Pettibone (1959 – ). It samples “Ooh, I Love It (Love Break)” by The Sasoul Orchestra. That is one of the many distinct sounds that make the musical backdrop sublime.  The opening texture of the song is smooth, establishing an incredible ambiance.  An ear-catching, hyper-rhythmic percussive groove evolves with natural, unhurried pacing. The rhythmic layers are impressive – a key part of the record.  I live for the synths, sound effects, and clever music cues.

Supported by a sumptuous backdrop, Madonna shows ample personality on this infectious dance cut.  She brings the unforgettable melodies to life. “When all else fails and you long to be / Something better than you are today,” she sings in the first verse, continuing, “I know a place where you can get away / It’s called a dance floor / And here’s what it’s for, so.” Oh, the escapism is glorious! The verses are terrific, but there are two sections to beat. The first is the chorus:

“Come on, vogue (vogue, vogue)

Let your body groove to the music (Groove to the music)

Hey, hey, hey

Come on, vogue (vogue, vogue)

Let your body go with the flow (Go with the flow)

You know you can do it.”