Madonna in Concert at PPG Paints Arena (Mon., 2/5/23)

Madonna, a Bay City Michigan native, was a straight-A student and a cheerleader in High School. In 1978 she dropped out of the University of Michigan to seek her fortune in New York City as a dancer and singer. After several different groups and romantic relationships—one of which was with Jean-Michel Basquiat—she struck out on her own. Initial success led to the release of her self titled album in 1983. That blockbuster album spun off several huge hits that grew her popularity both in the U.S. and abroad. “Lucky Star,” “Borderline,” “Holiday,” “Burning Up,” “Physical Attraction,” and “Everybody” were the hottest tracks from the album. The LP reached no. 8 on the Billboard 200 chart and achieved five-times Platinum sales status. Madonna followed that success with another top selling album in 1984, “Like a Virgin.” The artist has never been afraid to stir the pot with her songs and outfits. One album was even titled, Erotica. Her videos were the darlings of MTV in the ’80s. Her song “Into the Groove” was used in the 1985 film, Desperately Seeking Susan starring Rosanna Arquette. Madonna’s latest album, 2019’s Madam X, reached no.1 on the Billboard 200 chart. She is one of the most creative and successful performers in recent decades. Madonna visits Pittsburgh on her Celebrations Tour which highlights four decades of songs. 8:30 p.m. PPG Paints Arena, 1001 Fifth Ave., Uptown. (R.H.)

Madonna in concert in London on her current Celebrations tour accompanied on piano by daughter Mercy James. (Photo: Chris Weger and Wikipedia)

Share on Social Media