Overview
Timelines
Early Life and Influences
Personal Life and Relationships
Literary Contributions
Career Beginnings and Rise to Fame
Mainstream Success and Iconic Albums
Philanthropy and Humanitarian Work
Recent Work and Projects
Overview and main events
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Awards and Recognitions
Acting Career
Tours and Live Performances
Chronicle
Articles
Madonna. Overview and main events
Overview and main events
Madonna Louise Ciccone, known globally as Madonna, is an American singer, songwriter, record producer, and actress. Born on August 16, 1958, in Bay City, Michigan, she has become one of the most influential and successful musicians of all time, earning the title 'Queen of Pop.' Her career spans over five decades, marked by continuous reinvention, innovative music, and significant cultural impact.
August 16, 1958
Birth
Madonna Louise Ciccone was born in Bay City, Michigan, to Catholic parents Madonna Louise (née Fortin) and Silvio Anthony 'Tony' Ciccone. Her early life was marked by the loss of her mother to breast cancer when she was just five years old, an event that would later drive her ambition for success.
1963
Mother's Death and Family Changes
At the age of five, Madonna lost her mother to breast cancer. Her father, Tony Ciccone, later married the family's housekeeper, Joan Gustafson, in 1966. This period was pivotal in shaping Madonna's determination and resilience.
1978
Move to New York City
Madonna dropped out of college and relocated to New York City with only $35 in her pocket. She began working various jobs, including as a hatcheck girl and an elevator operator, while pursuing a career in dance and music. She took classes at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and studied under Martha Graham.
1979-1983
Early Music Career
Madonna became involved with musician Dan Gilroy and formed her first band, the Breakfast Club. She also worked as a backup singer and dancer for French disco artist Patrick Hernandez. Her early music career included performing with rock bands and eventually signing with Sire Records.
1983
Debut Album and First Hit
Madonna released her eponymous debut studio album, which included her first hit single 'Holiday.' This marked the beginning of her solo stardom and set the stage for her future success with albums like "Like a Virgin" and "True Blue".
1986
Critical and Commercial Success
With the release of her third studio album, "True Blue", Madonna achieved significant critical and commercial success. She also became the first woman to receive the Video Vanguard Award at the 1986 MTV Video Music Awards.
1998
Release of "Ray of Light"
Madonna released "Ray of Light", an album that fused techno music with self-conscious lyrics. It was a commercial and critical success, earning her first musical Grammy Awards, including Best Pop Album.
2005
Grammy Win for "Confessions on a Dance Floor"
Madonna released "Confessions on a Dance Floor", which won the Grammy for Best Electronic/Dance Album. The album featured the hit track 'Hung Up' and marked her continued innovation in music.
2008
Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Madonna was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, recognizing her immense contribution to music. The same year, she embarked on the Sticky & Sweet Tour, which broke records for the highest-grossing concert tour by a female performer at the time.
2019
Release of "Madame X"
Madonna released her 14th studio album, "Madame X", inspired by her move to Lisbon, Portugal. The album featured a mix of Latin pop, art pop, and hip-hop, showcasing her continued experimentation and innovation in music.
