“Rain” is a lush and introspective ballad by Madonna, released in July 1993 as the fifth single from her fifth studio album, Erotica (1992). Written by Madonna and her longtime collaborator Shep Pettibone, the song stands out on the otherwise provocative and edgy Erotica album for its tender lyrics, ethereal production, and emotive delivery. “Rain” is a departure from the album’s themes of sexuality and power, offering a more romantic and contemplative perspective. It received critical acclaim for its sincerity and artistry and became a moderate commercial success.
“Rain” was written and produced by Madonna and Shep Pettibone, who had previously worked together on hits like “Vogue” and “Express Yourself.” Unlike much of the Erotica album, which focused on themes of liberation and sensuality, “Rain” explores themes of emotional renewal, love, and spiritual cleansing. The song was one of the softer, more accessible tracks on the album, showcasing Madonna’s versatility as an artist. Its production incorporates dreamy synth-pop elements with a soft R&B influence, highlighting Madonna’s ability to blend genres seamlessly.
“Rain” uses the metaphor of rain to symbolize love, healing, and emotional release. The lyrics describe the narrator’s longing for intimacy and connection, with lines like “Wash away my sorrow, take away my pain” expressing the transformative power of love and emotional vulnerability. “Rain” is characterized by its ethereal and atmospheric sound. The song combines synthesized strings, a gentle drumbeat, and layered vocals, creating a serene, almost hypnotic effect. The production is smooth and polished, with Shep Pettibone’s expertise evident in the intricate arrangement. Madonna’s vocal performance is tender and controlled, showcasing her ability to convey deep emotion. Her layered harmonies add depth to the track, enhancing its dreamy and soothing vibe. The song’s soft, understated production contrasts sharply with the more experimental and provocative tracks on Erotica, making it a standout on the album.
“Rain” achieved moderate commercial success, peaking at No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. and reaching the top 10 in countries such as Canada, Italy, and Australia. In the UK, it peaked at No. 7, adding to Madonna’s string of hits during the 1990s. The song performed particularly well on adult contemporary radio formats, where its soothing tone and romantic theme appealed to a wider audience. While not one of Madonna’s biggest commercial hits, “Rain” was praised for its artistic integrity and emotional resonance.
The music video for “Rain** was directed by Mark Romanek and is widely regarded as one of Madonna’s most visually stunning works. Shot in black and white with hints of blue tinting, the video features Madonna in a futuristic studio, recording the song and interacting with high-tech equipment. Her appearance, with sleek black hair and minimal makeup, emphasizes elegance and simplicity.
“Rain” received positive reviews from critics, who praised its production, emotional depth, and Madonna’s vocal performance. It was often cited as a standout track on Erotica for its softer and more introspective tone. Critics appreciated the song’s ability to balance pop appeal with a more experimental and artistic sensibility.