Madonna, “Like a Prayer” | Throwback Vibez

On the 17^th edition of Throwback Vibez, we recollect and reflect on “Like a Prayer” by pop icon, Madonna.   

T

he vibes, the vibes, those Throwback Vibez ! Throwback Vibez is a column that celebrates awesome songs from the past.  The records that grace Throwback Vibez are older, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they’re ancient – no fossils ! All genres of music are welcome – we don’t discriminate ‘round here! On the 17^th edition of Throwback Vibez (2021), we recollect and reflect on “Like a Prayer”, performed by Madonna.

---

Theme & Lyrics

“Life is a mystery / Everyone must stand alone / I hear you call my name / And it feels like home.” Madonna is an icon, period.  Interestingly, throughout her career, she has tweaked and altered her sound.  One such example is one of my personal favorite songs from her illustrious catalog, “Like a Prayer.” “Like a Prayer,” fittingly, appears on her 1989 album, Like a Prayer.  Rather than being a dance-pop record, “Like a Prayer” is more gospel-pop/pop-soul. The gospel part is undeniable, with incredible backing vocals by the legendary The Andraé Crouch Singers, who participated on many secular recordings adding some extra oomph.

With a title like “Like a Prayer,” spirituality is an inescapable theme.  The problem is, it’s not particularly Christian!

“When you call my name
It’s like a little prayer
I’m down on my knees
I want to take you there
In the midnight hour
I can feel your power
Just like a prayer
You know I’ll take you there.”

Hmm, doesn’t sound like “a little talk with Jesus,” that’s for sure! She makes spiritual references mind you, but sex is on her mind.  “Like a child / You whisper softly to me,” she sings on the second verse, adding, “You’re in control.” God or this god – “That is the question!” Clearly, we get no ‘spiritual’ answers or advice from Madge, but the innuendo is lit.  The bridge and the outro mark my favorite sections, highlighting the gospel-tinged nature of the record.

---

Music Video  

The other thing about Madonna is, she doesn’t shy away from controversy.  Originally, I considered “Like a Prayer” for Controversial Tunes .  Why? The music video , mainly!  You think the lyrics of the song itself aren’t sincerely spiritual, well, get a load of the video, which has plenty of blasphemy for prayer-fueled number.  Burning crosses, a kiss between Madge and a black saint, and arguably, when Madge ‘catches the spirit.’ I’ll leave that at that!

---

Final Thoughts

“Like a Prayer” is what it is – a controversial, utterly sublime throwback gem! Sure, Madonna offends a few folks here and there, but the music is fabulous.  The music video earns most of the controversy, but don’t get it twisted – “Like a Prayer” the song is naughty in its own right!

---

Madonna • Like a Prayer • Sire • 1989
Madonna, “Like a Prayer”: Throwback Vibez No. 17 [: Brent Faulkner, cotton bro,  The Musical Hype, Sire]

---