MADONNA - Dress You Up 12" Vinyl MAXI-SINGLE

  "Dress You Up" is the song by American singer Madonna. It was released as the final single from her second studio album, "Like a Virgin" , on 24 July 1985, by Sire Records. The song was the last track to be added to the album as it was submitted late by songwriters Andrea LaRusso and Peggy Stanziale. Madonna pushed for the song's inclusion on "Like a Virgin" as she particularly liked its lyrics. Musically, the song is a drum beat driven dance track featuring instrumentation from guitars and vocals from a choir. The lyrics are an extended metaphor for fashion and sex, comparing dressing up with passion. A live performance from Madonna's first tour was used as the music video.

 

large album front cover photo of: Madonna Dress You Up

"Dress You Up": A 12" Maxi-Single That Challenged Boundaries and Defined an Era

In the music scene of 1985, Madonna, the undisputed Queen of Pop, released "Dress You Up," a 12" maxi-single that became a dance-pop anthem and further solidified her iconic status. The song, featured in her second studio album "Like a Virgin," captured the energy and spirit of the era, showcasing Madonna's fearless approach to music and fashion.

Historical Context and Musical Exploration

"Dress You Up" emerged during a time when Madonna was pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms. The song's lyrics, an extended metaphor for fashion and sex, were considered provocative by some, but resonated with a generation embracing self-expression and individuality. Musically, the track blended elements of dance-pop, new wave, and funk, showcasing Madonna's versatility as an artist.

Production Team and Nile Rodgers' Influence

The song was produced by Nile Rodgers, a legendary musician and producer known for his work with Chic and other iconic artists. Rodgers' signature funky guitar riffs and rhythmic production style added a unique flavor to "Dress You Up," making it an instant dancefloor hit. Madonna and Rodgers' collaboration proved to be a match made in musical heaven, resulting in a timeless classic.

Controversies

As with many of Madonna's releases, "Dress You Up" sparked controversy. The song's suggestive lyrics and Madonna's provocative stage performances during her "Virgin Tour" raised eyebrows and fueled debate. However, Madonna's unapologetic attitude and artistic vision only amplified her appeal and cemented her status as a cultural icon.

Recording Studio and Legacy

The recording of "Dress You Up" took place at Power Station Studios in New York City, a legendary recording facility that had hosted numerous iconic artists. The 12" maxi-single format, a popular medium in the 1980s, allowed for extended remixes and additional tracks, enhancing the listening experience and further fueling the song's popularity.

"Dress You Up" remains a beloved classic among Madonna fans and music enthusiasts alike. Its infectious energy, bold lyrics, and captivating music video continue to inspire and entertain. The song stands as a testament to Madonna's enduring influence and her ability to create music that transcends time and trends.

Madonna performing Dress You Up, LIVE!:

Music Genre:

80s Disco, Pop 

Album Production Information:

The album: "MADONNA - Dress You Up" was produced by: Nile Rodgers
Sound/Recording Engineer(s): John "Jellybean" Benetiz, Michael Hutichinson

Record Label & Catalog-nr:

Sire 0-020369

Record Format:

12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram 

Year & Country:

1984 Made in USA
Complete Track-listing of the album "MADONNA - Dress You Up"

The detailed tracklist of this record "MADONNA - Dress You Up" is:

    Track-listing Side One:
  1. Dress You Up
    Side Two:
  1. Dress You Up
  2. Shoo-Bee-Doo
High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover  "MADONNA - Dress You Up"
High Resolution Photo #10 MADONNA - Dress You Up
Album Back Cover  Photo of "MADONNA - Dress You Up"
High Resolution Photo #11 MADONNA - Dress You Up
Close-up Photo of "MADONNA - Dress You Up" Record Label 
High Resolution Photo #12 MADONNA - Dress You Up

 Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).

Like a Discography: The Complete 1980s Collection of Madonna's Vinyl Records

MADONNA - Angel 7" Vinyl Single
MADONNA - Angel album front cover vinyl record

Madonna's 1985 single "Angel," a synth-pop anthem from her era-defining album "Like a Virgin," received a distinct visual treatment for its European 7" vinyl release. This sleeve offered a more intimate look at the pop icon compared to the US version.

Learn more
MADONNA - Burning Up b/w Physical Attraction 12" Vinyl LP
MADONNA - Burning Up b/w Physical Attraction  album front cover vinyl record

Released in 1983, Madonna's 12" vinyl single "Burning Up" b/w "Physical Attraction" emerged during a transformative period in pop music. MTV had recently launched, and a new wave of artists was reshaping the industry with innovative sounds and visuals.

Learn more
MADONNA - Causing Commotion 12" Vinyl Maxi Single
MADONNA - Causing Commotion album front cover vinyl record

In the music scene of 1987, Madonna, the undisputed Queen of Pop, released "Causing a Commotion," a 12" maxi-single that became an instant sensation. The song, featured in the soundtrack of the film "Who's That Girl," captured the energy and spirit of the era, further solidifying Madonna's iconic status.

Learn more
MADONNA - Dress You Up 12" Vinyl LP
MADONNA - Dress You Up  album front cover vinyl record

In the music scene of 1985, Madonna, the undisputed Queen of Pop, released "Dress You Up," a 12" maxi-single that became a dance-pop anthem and further solidified her iconic status. The song, featured in her second studio album "Like a Virgin," captured the energy and spirit of the era,

Learn more
MADONNA - The First Album 12" Vinyl LP
MADONNA - The First Album  album front cover vinyl record

Madonna's first self-titled album, released in 1983, was a significant milestone in the artist's career. It was her debut album, and it showcased her unique style and sound that would go on to define her career. The album was produced by Reggie Lucas

Learn more
MADONNA - Gambler (7" and 12" Versions)
MADONNA - Gambler (7" and 12" Versions) album front cover vinyl record

In 1985, Madonna, fresh off the success of her second album "Like a Virgin," released an standard and extended dance mix of "Gambler" as a 12" maxi-single. The track, originally featured on the soundtrack of the film "Vision Quest," received a pulsating makeover, transforming it into a club-ready anthem.

- Gambler 7" PS Single (1985) - Gambler extended dance mix (1985, Holland)
MADONNA - Into The Groove b/w Shoo-Bee-Doo 7" Vinyl Single
MADONNA - Into The Groove b/w Shoo-Bee-Doo  album front cover vinyl record

In 1985, Madonna, at the peak of her pop stardom, released "Into the Groove," a single that became synonymous with the dance craze sweeping the globe. Originally featured in the film "Desperately Seeking Susan," the song's infectious beat and catchy lyrics propelled it to the top of charts worldwide.

Learn more
MADONNA - La Isla Bonita (Remix Edit) 7" Vinyl Single
MADONNA - La Isla Bonita (Remix Edit) album front cover vinyl record

In 1987, Madonna, already a global pop icon, released "La Isla Bonita" as a single from her third studio album, "True Blue." The song, a departure from her usual dance-pop sound, incorporated Latin and Caribbean influences, showcasing her versatility as an artist.

Learn more
MADONNA - Like a Prayer 12" Vinyl LP
MADONNA - Like a Prayer  album front cover vinyl record

In the late 1980s, Madonna had already established herself as a pop icon, pushing boundaries with her provocative image and infectious dance-pop anthems. However, with her fourth studio album, "Like a Prayer," released in 1989, she embarked on a new era of artistic exploration and maturity.

Learn more
MADONNA - Like a Virgin 12" Vinyl LP
MADONNA - Like a Virgin album front cover vinyl record

Madonna's 1984 album "Like a Virgin" was more than just a chart-topping success; it was a cultural earthquake that redefined the boundaries of female pop stars. The album's release coincided with the rise of MTV, and Madonna's provocative videos and image became synonymous with the era.

Learn more
MADONNA - Live to Tell 7" Vinyl Single
MADONNA - Live to Tell  album front cover vinyl record

In 1986, Madonna released "Live to Tell," the lead single from her third studio album, "True Blue." The song marked a significant shift in her musical direction, showcasing a more mature and introspective side of the pop icon.

Learn more
MADONNA - Self-Titled First Album 12" Vinyl LP
MADONNA - Self-Titled First Album  album front cover vinyl record

Emerging from the underground dance clubs of New York City, Madonna's music captured the spirit of a generation seeking self-expression and liberation. Her self-titled album blended elements of dance-pop, disco, and synth-pop, creating a sound that was both infectious and innovative.

Learn more
MADONNA - True Blue 12" Vinyl LP
MADONNA - True Blue  album front cover vinyl record

Madonna’s “True Blue” is a landmark album in her career that cemented her status as a pop icon. Released in 1986, it was her third studio album, and it was a massive commercial success, selling over 25 million copies worldwide. The album spawned many hits, including “Papa Don’t Preach,”

Learn more
MADONNA - Who's That Girl (7" and 12" Versions)
MADONNA - Who's That Girl (7" and 12" Versions) album front cover vinyl record

In 1987, Madonna unleashed the "Who's That Girl" 7" Single anf 12" maxi-single, a dancefloor extravaganza that expanded upon the infectious energy of the film's title track. This extended format allowed for a deeper exploration of the song's various remixes and extended versions, catering to both club DJs and avid fans.

- Who's That Girl 7" PS Single - Who's that Girl 12" Maxi-Single
Index of Psychedelic Album Cover Gallery & 12" Vinyl LP Discography Information
BARRABAS - Wild Safari 12" Vinyl LP
BARRABAS - Wild Safari album front cover vinyl record

hey spent two years refining their sound. A sound that was rich in funk and psychedelic rock, jazz and even disco. Their first album released in the U.S. was 1972's "Wild Safari" it spawned the radio hit "Woman."

Learn more
CANNED HEAT - Livin' the Blues 12" Vinyl LP
CANNED HEAT - Livin' the Blues album front cover vinyl record

Livin' the Blues" is the 1968 double LP album by Canned Heat. It was one of the first double albums to place well on album charts. It features Canned Heat's signature song, "Going Up The Country,"

Learn more
CRIMSON GLORY - Strange and Beautiful 12" Vinyl LP
CRIMSON GLORY - Strange and Beautiful album front cover vinyl record

In an era of sound- and look-alike metal bands, Crimson Glory they wore full-face metallic silver masks on-stage (as well as for all photo shoots and public appearances). T

Learn more
JIMI HENDRIX - Are You Experienced? 12" Vinyl LP
JIMI HENDRIX - Are You Experienced? album front cover vinyl record

This verson of "Are You Experienced" is from the independent Barclay Records in France, which produced a completely different cover featuring a photo of Hendrix performing on a recent French TV show, surrounded by "psychedelic" painted, swirling graphics;

Learn more
JIMI HENDRIX - Moods 12" Vinyl LP
JIMI HENDRIX - Moods  album front cover vinyl record

"Moods" was released in 1974, several years after Hendrix's death. The album was compiled by Alan Douglas, who had previously produced Hendrix's posthumous releases "Crash Landing" and "Midnight Lightning"

Learn more
LIME SPIDERS - Weird Libido 12" Vinyl EP
LIME SPIDERS - Weird Libido  album front cover vinyl record

"Lime Spiders' 'Weirdo Libido' 12" Vinyl LP Album, recorded and released in 1987, is a punk rock masterpiece by the Australian band hailing from Sydney. Born in 1979, Lime Spiders' distinctive sound resonates through this EP

Learn more
Love is Blue (Psychedelic Sexy Nudity) 12" Vinyl LP
Love is Blue (Psychedelic Sexy Nudity)  album front cover vinyl record

"Love is Blue" 12" Vinyl LP Album is a captivating compilation featuring tracks by 101 Strings, The Spots, and The Petars. With a diverse range of artists, the album weaves together a tapestry of beat,

Learn more
MADONNA - Dress You Up 12" Maxi-Single
MADONNA - Dress You Up  album front cover vinyl record

Madonna pushed for the song's inclusion on "Like a Virgin" as she particularly liked its lyrics. Musically, the song is a drum beat driven dance track featuring instrumentation from guitars and vocals from a choir

Learn more
STEPPENWOLF - 7 ( Seven ) 12" Vinyl LP
STEPPENWOLF - 7 ( Seven ) album front cover vinyl record

The album "7" featured a classic cover of Hoyt Axton's "Snowblind Friend", their second cover of one of his anti-drug songs (the first being the famous "The Pusher")

Learn more
STIFF LITTLE FINGERS - Hanx! 12" Vinyl LP
STIFF LITTLE FINGERS - Hanx!  album front cover vinyl record

"Stiff Little Fingers' 'Hanx!' is a live punk manifesto, captured on a 12" LP in 1980. With raw energy and political fervor, the album immortalizes the band's rebellious spirit. Each track is a sonic riot,

Learn more