“Ray of Light” is an electrifying, uplifting electronic dance song by Madonna, released in May 1998 as the second single from her album of the same name. Written by Madonna, William Orbit, Clive Maldoon, Dave Curtiss, and Christine Leach, the song became one of her most critically acclaimed hits, known for its euphoric energy, spiritual themes, and cutting-edge production.
Ray of Light is about freedom, enlightenment, and transcendence, with lines like “Faster than the speeding light she’s flying” reflecting a sense of rebirth and limitless possibilities. The song was inspired by Madonna’s journey into spirituality, motherhood, and personal transformation, making it a deeply symbolic piece in her discography.
The track blends trance, techno, and electronica with elements of pop and rock, featuring pulsating synths, rapid drum loops, and soaring vocal runs. Madonna’s dynamic and expressive singing, which reaches some of the highest notes of her career, adds to the song’s energetic and ecstatic feel. The song was co-written and produced by William Orbit, whose innovative approach gave it a fresh, futuristic sound that was groundbreaking for mainstream pop at the time.
The song was a major commercial success, reaching No.1 in Spain, No. 2 in the UK, and No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping the dance charts worldwide. It earned Madonna a Grammy Award for Best Dance Recording and became a defining track of the late 90s electronic music movement.