August 16th: The Day Madonna was Born

August 16^th 1958 is the birthday of singer, song-writer, actress, dancer and businesswoman, Madonna. Fun Fact: Madonna’s actual name is Madonna. All this time I assumed it was a stage name, a starting point for her image of female power and independence. But no, she was christened Madonna Louise Ciccone, born in Michagan, and moved to New York City to discover herself as a modern dancer. Releasing her debut album in 1983, Madonna was the face of 80s pop culture, epitomising the fashion-fever of the moment. Today she has told over 300 million records worldwide, and according to ‘Guinness World Records’ Madonna is the ‘world’s top-selling female recording artist of all-time’.

Madonna sporting her leotard

   A lot of Madonna’s success and popularity is down to her individual, trend-setting image. Who would have thought thick, dark eyebrows with bleach blonde hair could look good until Madonna did it? She seems to live her life as a fashion statement, and performed in a way that made every girl want to be her, and every guy...want her. However, with her major hits stuck in the 80s and 90s, it does make me wonder if she still has it in 2012. Turning 54 years old on this day is quite surprising since she still dresses and acts like a twenty-something star. Although her music is still hot and never fails to keep up with the ever-changing chart for what’s ‘hot’, Madonna herself is arguably lagging a little. I know it seems harsh, but there should be an age limit on wearing tight, revealing leotards with nothing underneath...[see ‘Hung Up’ music video for more details]. What do you think? Is it time for Madonna to hang up the see-through shirts and cone-bras?

    Obviously this should not detract from the incredible impression this woman has made on the music industry of the last four decades, and still going! This year she was named the ‘Greatest Woman in Music’, proving to the world she’s still a rock-star, regardless of age. And why should age stop her from continuing her success, anyway? Madonna remains a role-model to other women, whether in the music industry, or life in general, as she is a mother as well (to a lot of kids!). Are you a fan of Madonna?