“Vogue” is a dance-pop anthem by Madonna, released in March 1990 with “Keep It Together” on the B-side as the lead single from the soundtrack album I’m Breathless: Music from and Inspired by the Film Dick Tracy. Written and produced by Madonna and Shep Pettibone, the song became one of her most iconic hits, blending house music with elements of disco and pop while celebrating self-expression and empowerment.
The lyrics of “Vogue” draw inspiration from the vogue dance style, which originated in Harlem’s underground ballroom scene, primarily within the Black and Latino LGBTQ+ communities. Vogueing involves striking poses inspired by high-fashion models, and Madonna uses this concept as a metaphor for confidence, individuality, and escapism.
Musically, “Vogue” is characterized by its house-inspired beats, shimmering synths, and a pulsing bassline. The track features a spoken-word bridge where Madonna name-drops iconic Hollywood stars, such as Greta Garbo, Marilyn Monroe, and Marlon Brando, paying homage to classic cinema and glamour.
“Vogue” was a massive commercial success, topping the charts in over 30 countries, including the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States and the UK Singles Chart. It became Madonna’s eighth No. 1 single in the U.S. and is one of the best-selling singles of all time, with millions of copies sold worldwide.
The music video, directed by David Fincher, is a black-and-white masterpiece that pays homage to the golden age of Hollywood. Featuring stylized choreography and striking visuals, the video captures the elegance and drama of the vogueing culture while showcasing Madonna as a glamorous and commanding presence. It won three MTV Video Music Awards and is widely regarded as one of the greatest music videos of all time.
In Rolling Stone Reader’s Poll Awards, the song was won both “Best Single” and “Best Video” categories. The music video was voted #2 on MTV’s “100 Greatest Videos Ever Made” and #5 on VH1’s “100 Greatest Songs of the 90s”. In 1991, “Vogue” was awarded also with American Music Awards for “Favorite Dance Single”.