Madonna

"Like a Prayer" is the fourth studio album by American singer Madonna, released in 1989 by Sire Records. The album marked a departure from her earlier sound, as Madonna infused a variety of styles, including gospel, soul, and rock, into her music. With its personal and provocative lyrics, "Like a Prayer" became a landmark release in Madonna's career and a cultural touchstone for the 1990s.

The album's title track, "Like a Prayer", was a controversial hit, featuring a gospel choir and religious imagery. The song's video caused outrage due to its depictions of burning crosses and stigmata, leading to boycotts and protests from religious groups. Nevertheless, the song's catchy melody and anthemic chorus made it a huge success, reaching the top of the charts worldwide.

The album features several other hits, including "Express Yourself", an empowering anthem for women that celebrates individuality and encourages self-expression. "Cherish" is a sweet and upbeat love song that showcases Madonna's pop sensibilities. "Oh Father" is a haunting ballad that explores the complicated relationship between Madonna and her father.

"Like a Prayer" also features collaborations with top musicians of the time, such as Prince, who co-wrote and played guitar on the album's seventh track, "Love Song". The album's final track, "Act of Contrition", is a spoken-word piece that addresses the controversy surrounding the album's religious themes.

Aside from its commercial success, "Like a Prayer" was critically acclaimed and is still regarded as one of Madonna's greatest works. The album's themes of empowerment, self-expression, and spirituality resonated with audiences and continue to inspire listeners today. "Like a Prayer" also paved the way for other pop stars to explore controversial topics and experiment with different genres in their music.