MADONNA - LIKE A PRAYER (Music video - first time reaction) 

She didn't have to take on issues like racism/homophobia to sell records but chose to throughout her career and that is something I've always appreciated about her. She finds brilliant ways to incorporate serious messages behind her music and I think that is an art that is lost on recent generations of performers. There are no real icons anymore, just just prefabricated record label creations.

Apparently, where Madonna lived growing up for a period all of her friends where black girls, and when more black people were moving into their neighborhood her father was one that didn't move out. As she became a teenager James Baldwin was and is one of her literary and historical heroes, also her boyfriend for a year or two was Stephen Bray whom she had met at U of M before dropping out, and he followed her to New York. The video is like a little bit of everything ina dream, and it's underpinnings are about not being afraid of getting involved if you're a witness to discrimination and about social justice, isn't it? Choir was the Andre Crouch choir, he is phenomenal. When I saw this the first time it was the MTV world premier. I remember the cassette I bought of the album had a patchouli scented insert, really great album I just like all of the layers to her. And as art, anyone can see what they see and interpret it the way they want to.

It’s a dream, it’s a play, it’s the original BLM.

Like A Prayer and Vogue were her twin pinnacle moments (for me) of her supreme artistic songwriting, vocals, dancing and videos. Her LAP album was when she became more respected by critics and no longer a throwaway artist. And Vogue was her reminder that even though she could write serious mature songs in LAP, she still had her finger on the pulse of the latest underground culture.

The stigmata image was a huge trigger when this was released, A lot of people don’t pick that up. Great reaction, thank you.

This song stands the test of time. It is a timeless, classic, brave, bold and extremely important and impactful artistic statement and song. She was commenting and talking about these issues in her work and life more than 30 years ago. She has always been so ahead of time throughout her career. Always been a supporter of so many disadvantaged and discriminated against minorities all around the world. She is an activist, a supporter and a fierce fighter for the things that matter to her. Racism, sexism, the gay community, ageism, artistic expression and freedom of speech etc. And the atomic shitstorm that amazing video caused all around the world was a spectacle to witness and behold. As you can imagine many religious groups and conservative, outraged yokels and their rabid constituents wanted to burn her on a public stake. Black Jesus, bleeding stigmata, burning crosses, interracial affairs?!? How dare she? What an intelligent, smart and brave woman she is. She broke the mould. This is artistic expression in its purest form and the layering and intricacies of the visuals and the song are amazingly done. Best song of that decade.j

It’s one of the best pop music videos of all time

I think when Madonna did this video/song, she wanted everyone to know she was more than just a passing pop singer with no real message.. The gathering force of Madonna was upon us. And I loved it. Also, I've said it before, you are one of the reactors I will listen to.

Express Yourself is her best video imo. This one touches on everything. Racial profiling, inter racial kiss, stigmata, black saint/Jesus, crying statues, and oh my, the burning crosses caused a ton of pearl clutching. And all still relevant topics today. She was so ahead of her time. By decades.

Vogue is aesthetically beautiful and one of her best songs, but this is top tier in terms of her videos, and in terms of being one of the best music videos of all time, quite frankly. In someone else's hands, this could appear to be a 'white saviour' video, but M was from a very early age immersed in very diverse cultures and was a true ally to minority communities. We also have to factor in that NO ONE was talking about stuff like institiutional racism back in 1989. It took how many years before black civil rights finally was taken seriously again with BLM? Almost 35-40 years. I see you reviewed the Pepsi commercial and I think that's a brilliant contrast in themes. The Pepsi commerical was sort of 50s nostalgia and presented a black and white 'America' that seemed good and wholesome... M was like... nah, I'm gonna show you the REAL America, with blacks being incarcerated at higher levels than whites, the hypocricy of the church and America's discomfort with interracial relationships. And oops... Pepsi immediately pulled the Madonna commerical as soon as the video came out, because it caused so much backlash and controversy... too bad for them they still had to honour the $5M they paid her to star in it. HAHAHA.

This is Madonna at her greatest!

Madonna made a choice in making this video. She was the first pop artist to talk about police racism and interpersonal relationships. Hint: The light they shine on her while the crosses are on fire are the same police lights they shine on the black actor. To end the blasphemy, Madonna makes a song about oral sex in a gospel pop tone and the world sings :)

BLACK LIVES MATTERS... Madonna way ahead 💝 --- Madonna never wanted to disrespect religion...she is only questioning. --- So when the crosses burns...it means it doesnt matter go to church and do injustices...its all about false moralism --- Its a beautiful video, to respect each other...and all puritans sees is a devil worship --- By the way, Madonna is incredible beautiful in here

Madonna is an admirer of the late protest novelist and social critic James Baldwin (died in 1987). She took to heart his urging that true “artists are here to disturb the peace”. That artists have a unique responsibility to society “to illustrate the darkness, blaze roads through that vast forest, so that we will not, in all our doing, lose sight of its purpose, which is after all, to make the world a more human dwelling place..” This is one reason why her artistry had remained relevant through time. When all is said and done, Madonna’s songs such as Like A Prayer and others that carry strong socio-political and religious messaging will be remembered long after she’s left this physical space.

One of the most important songs / videos ever. Glad you found this. At the time it was so controversial , it should not have been. Miss these days. Spread the word Johnny !

Can’t wait for you to review the album. I think it was Rolling Stone magazine who said that the LAP album was ‘as close to art as pop music gets’

Great reaction😊 Here in the video she knew she was the same age as her mother, named Madonna was when she died. The Vatican and Pope John Paul didn't like her because her name is Madonna, and then every other excuse came after that fact. Me too, I was a Catholic boy, I was gay, and then my family became Pentecostal. There's definitely a sexual reference in the chorus with at least two meanings. Within the chorus also was a nod to and referencing the song "I'll Take You There" as a bit of inspiration taken from that, appropriately

One of the greatest songs ever written. And one of the greatest videos ever made. I'll love this woman til the end of time!! 👑❤👑❤👑❤👑

Hands down yours is the best reaction to this Madonna song!

Another controversy was the woman being stabbed in her side like Jesus on the cross. She wanted to take the power away from the image of the burning cross, taking an intimidating symbol and reducing it to dramatic back lighting. Brilliant. The teaser ads before this was released was intense as well. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-LnNrkB1w_4U.html

I love your Madonna reactions and appreciation of her. Love her work. She was so brave and this video highlights problems that still exist today. For someone who gets so much criticism it’s interesting how much of her message is actually above love acceptance and tolerating diversity that is just over looked. She is perhaps the greatest at holding a mirror up to the world by getting their attention and making them feel very uncomfortable when they should. Wishing her a speedy recovery ❤️

Truly one of my favorite Madonna songs and videos. I still get chills when I listen to this song!

One of the most important videos of all time...The artistry is incomparable, in every way possible.

Love this video. Sadly I remember when I was around 8 or 9 when this came out and my friend Emily was watching it with me. She said to her older sister who ironically looked just like Madonna here “Ewwww she kissed a black guy!” It made me feel just soo angry, small and embarrassed coming from a mixed race family.

Leon Robinson plays her love interest/Jesus. He is a famous actor now

I love how you get it, as soon as the vid started you where clicking yr fingers and nodding your head, then it ended in tears, omg thank you. I was like this the 1st time I seen it. I seen the pepsi ad, there was a pre add on the week before so I taped it all on vhs. Thankyou for your reviews

She is quoted discussing this video and many Catholics recognized, is depicting St. Martin de Porres (a Black patron saint) and about equity and justice, decades ahead of todays convo in US anyway. She grew up in fairly devout family in Michigan, attended Catholic school before university of Michigan (dropped out before moving to NYC)

The black saint whose shrine she visits is St Martin de Porres, the patron saint of mixed-race people, barbers, innkeepers, public health workers, and all those seeking racial harmony, and animals. He was canonized in 1962.

You looked away when the blood dripped from the eye!😩

fvkin vibed with that so much. epic sonic material. 😵

The more we see this video, the more we are sure it is genius. Racism is dealt with in several layers. From the real world to the dream world. At the height of her career, she was not afraid of any controversy. 💥

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Hi Johnny 😊 I asked AI to explain why the music video for "Like a Prayer" has the potential to evoke an emotional response in viewers. It basically boils down to the fact your palette for pop culture is spectacular! Here’s what it said. The "Like a Prayer" music video by Madonna, released in 1989, is known for its controversial and provocative imagery, as well as its powerful themes and artistic execution. While different individuals may have varying emotional responses to the video, there are a few reasons why it has the potential to evoke strong emotions, including tears, in some people: 1. Religious Symbolism: The video incorporates religious imagery and symbolism, including crosses, statues, and burning crosses. Madonna's portrayal of a black saint, her witnessing of a murder, and her eventual salvation through prayer can be seen as a commentary on faith, redemption, and the power of spiritual transformation. For some viewers, this provocative juxtaposition of religious iconography with controversial themes can elicit strong emotions and challenge their beliefs. 2. Social Commentary: Madonna's video addresses issues such as racial and religious intolerance, bigotry, and injustice. It portrays racial tensions, wrongful accusations, and injustice in the criminal justice system. By highlighting these societal problems, the video can resonate with viewers who relate to or empathize with the struggles depicted, leading to an emotional response. 3. Artistic Expression: The "Like a Prayer" video is visually stunning and showcases Madonna's artistic vision. The cinematography, choreography, and storytelling elements are skillfully crafted, creating a powerful and immersive experience. The combination of the striking visuals, Madonna's passionate performance, and the song's emotional lyrics can evoke a strong emotional response in some viewers. 4. Personal Connection: Music and visual media have a unique ability to evoke memories, emotions, and personal experiences. For some individuals, the "Like a Prayer" video may hold personal significance or trigger memories associated with the song's release, the era, or their own experiences with religion, spirituality, or social issues. These personal connections can intensify the emotional impact of the video. It's important to note that people's emotional responses to art and media can vary greatly based on their individual perspectives, beliefs, and life experiences. While some may find the "Like a Prayer" video deeply moving, others may interpret it differently or not have the same emotional reaction. Art, including music videos, often invites subjective interpretation and emotional responses, making it a personal and unique experience for each viewer.

She has many iconic videos. Express Yourself is my favorite and was one of most expensive ones ever done and directed by the great David Fincher and takes inspiration from the classic silent sci-fi masterpiece Metropolis. Vogue, Frozen, Human Nature and Hung Up are among my top 5. Like A Prayer is up there in terms of quality.

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Legendary song and video!

Profoundly moving - fab reaction. Can’t WAIT to see your Vogue reaction

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I'm so glad I found your channel. Your reaction is the best I've seen because of your thought process, personal ideas and experiences as they relate to the song, lyrics, and video. Thanks from a new subscriber!

Love your passionate reviews! Great insight on a powerful video!

The stigmata was not blasphemous, it is a representation of the cases where purportedly a Catholic nun received the stigmata as a sign from God and a blessing, I think there was a saint called Agatha; and a saint is canonized partly if they have performed three miracles; in this video the first miracle Madonna witnesses is the tears of the statue, the second is the statue cominh to life, and the third is her receiving the stigmata (all in a dream)

the black guy who is accused of the woman's assault is the same guy who is the saint. they are one in the same. he comes to her rescue but is charged with the assault .

The black guy is Leon. The cuts on the hands is stigma. Leon gets set up by the police, Madonna was fighting black lives matter back in 1989. Madonna was condemned by the pope and there was an outcry. The burning crosses scenes were beyond legendary and very powerful. Madonna has an amazing way of mixing sex and religion together. This is achieved again in holy water from the rebel heart tour, the alter scene is everything in holy water. As a gay 13 year old boy back in 1989 like a prayer made me a stan till this day. Yes Madonna has lost her way a little in the last 10 years but madame X had some amazing videos. On a personal note I got married and had three amazing children, wrong I know being gay, but I came out six years ago at 42 and found the person I was meant to be. I set my x wife free who is younger than me, she is much happier and leading a better life as she should. I have three amazing kids who are exceptionally close to me because I don't judge but bring them up with morals. My eldest daughter who is 18 in two weeks and has a girlfriend. How times have changed since 1989, we live in a completely different world on many levels apart from racism, sexism and homophobia still exist. But on other levels the 80s and 90s were great times to grow up apart from the terrible aids epidemic which sadly was misunderstood and killed too many people. Thanks for your reaction and vogue which you are doing soon is also legendary. Both like a prayer and vogue were UK number 1s back in the day.

Absolutely right.... One of the most controversial pieces of art you are likely to see...and i loved how the Pepsi commercial came out a week before and was immediately pulled..after middle America went nuts....of course after her pocketing 5 million dollars...she later thanked Pepsi at the MTV Awards "for causing so much controversy"

*in this case the song wasnt really written for how she portrayed it in the video. the song itself is a full on love song if you listen to the lyrics.* *but she took the general theme of the song & changed it up to support a story of racism, sexual & religious ecstasy, smashing the patriarchy & bigotry & righting wrongs. the director Mary Lambert had a lot of input into the visuals as well & changed the initial direction of the storyline. they worked very well together a few times during M's career.* *the controversy this caused was immeasurable at the time!!* *the closed-minded saw her in a church... but didnt question why she was there.* *the closed-minded saw the black saint (based on Martin de Porres, the patron saint of mixed-races & all those seeking interracial harmony)... but didnt question why he was specifically featured.* *the closed-minded saw the burning crosses... but didnt **_want_** to understand that they represented racism & bigotry.* *the closed minded saw an interracial kiss between Madonna & Leon... and very simply they could not handle that.* *the closed-minded saw a little too much dark skin for their taste, especially when juxtaposed with Madonna's pale features.* *the closed-minded couldnt handle having their beliefs & prejudices thrown back into their faces, so, like always, they attacked Madonna viciously instead of doing a little self-reflection.* *& of course Madonna was **_THRILLED_** by all the controversy this caused. it cemented her place as the biggest singer and celebrity on the planet!*

G'day it's Steven from down under I clearly recall when this music video was released all the rubbish and ridiculous outrage, especially by religious and conservative groups, absolute nonsense. Get well Madonna and wishing you a speedy recovery All hail the Queen of Pop!

Did you notice at the end the head thug was playing guitar using the woman who played the victim?

Thank you for a great reaction. Like You I was brought up with the guilt/innocence, good/evil catholicism. When this video 1st played in my home my Dad went absolutely mental. She was evil incarnate. I was dancing along as you do when you' re 16/!7. Then my face hit the wall when he whacked me. I got up and still keep getting to this day. Black or White by Mr Jackson is good but this has more emotion, power its raw. Be Good Guys

A "good" one to review would be Madonna - Like A Prayer from Eurovision

This video dropped the day after the Pepsi commercial debuted (which was never aired again). We didn't even have a chance to get used to the song before all hell broke lose. The video was on constant rotation, hand cuts and bloody eye intact, I seem to recall. Again, Madonna's a great face actress, but horrible with dialogue. I always watched until the "the end" for some reason and remembered the guitar licks as the curtain came down.

a holly BIBLE

Hey I love your channel. I have recommendation "Your Smile" by Rene & Angela

The context of the burning crosses it has more to do with racism. The klu klux klan set burning crosses in front of black people to threathen them. For me the video is basically a critic to racism. All the sexual subject it has more to do with being provocative

You live in a cave you never seen this video?

The music video of Like a Prayer was always a bit cringey and looks cheap and dated now. Her acting the line “he didn’t do it” just one of many clunkers. Express Yourself was FAR superior.

Who is gonna believe you never watched the video before?

The burning crosses are so profound.

I’m such a fan of your reactions! You’re always receiving and questioning and appreciating and wondering about imagery and impact. I remember reading a critique of the video when it first came out. The writer said something like “Only Madonna would have the audacity to use burning crosses as flattering backlight.” Lol

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