Main content
Sorry, this episode is not currently available

Barry Manilow on the thirty year career of Madonna. From 'Like A Virgin' to 'Ray of Light', he follows her constant re-invention, as she pursues new sounds and sets new trends.

Barry Manilow assesses the songwriting career of Madonna from 'Like A Virgin' to 'Ray of Light' and beyond. Over thirty years Madonna has constantly and successfully changed direction, innovated and re-invented her sound, image and writing. Barry follows her development from the simple two chord structure of 'Into the Groove' to the sophisticated lyrical ideas behind 'Papa Don't Preach'. It's a career of continuous experimentation with new musical ideas, new images and a constant quest for the best in rock and pop music.

57 minutes

Last on

Sun 27 Oct 201921:00
BBC Radio 2

More episodes

Previous

Episode 5Series 4

Next

Billy JoelSeries 4

See all episodes from They Write the Songs

Music Played

  • Barry Manilow

    I Write the Songs

    • Manilow Greatest Hits - Platinum Coll.
    • Arista.

  • Madonna

    Like A Virgin

    • Finally Enough Love (Deluxe Edition).
    • Rhino.
    • 7.

  • Madonna

    Burning Up

    • Madonna.
    • Warner Music UK Limited.
    • 3.

  • Madonna

    Lucky Star

    • Celebration.
    • Warner Bros.
    • 5.

  • Madonna

    Into The Groove

    • Celebration.
    • Warner Bros.
    • 8.

  • Madonna

    Live To Tell

    • (CD Single).
    • Sire.

  • Madonna

    Papa Don't Preach

    • Madonna - The Immaculate Collection.
    • Sire.
    • 4.

  • Madonna

    Express Yourself

    • (Single).
    • Sire.

  • Madonna

    Like A Prayer

    • (CD Single).
    • Sire.
    • 9.

  • Madonna

    Vogue

    • Finally Enough Love (Deluxe Edition).
    • Rhino.

  • Madonna

    Ray Of Light

    • Celebration.
    • Warner Bros.
    • 10.

Broadcast

  • Sun 27 Oct 201921:00
    BBC Radio 2