Legendary Songwriter FINALLY Met The Icon Who Sang His #1 HIT, It Was A DISASTER | Professor of Rock

Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee Billy Steinberg tells the story of writing Madonna’s biggest 80s hit. The #1 smash Like A Virgin and how the song was not exactly what you originally thought. He also shares the notorious story of meeting Madonna..
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​#80s #Rock #Story
Hey music junkies and vinyl junkies Professor of Rock always here to celebrate the greatest artists and the greatest 80s songs of all time for the music community and vinyl community with music history video essay's. If you’ve ever owned records, cassettes and CD’s at different times in you life or still do this is your place Subscribe below right now to be a part of our daily celebration of the rock era with exclusive stories from straight from the artists and click on our patreon link in the description to see our brand new show there.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Poll: What is your pick for the greatest song by a Female Artist or band in the 1980s?

[@llaftsewyelrebmik5103]

I Will Always Love You by the incredible Whitney Houston

[@rs8461]

Pat Benatar - anything by her

[@italoblu]

Like a Prayer, Madonna. Revolutionary.

[@Axess-sv8nq]

'Shadows Of The Night' or 'We Belong' - Pat Benatar

[@lescorlett4133]

State of Independence by Donna Summer

[@RussellRobinson971]

Imagine that, Madonna snubbed the creator of the lyrics that propelled her into stardom. I would not have expected anything less

[@ProfessorofRock]

Pretty rough. Especially for a guy as nice as Billy!

[@glenerickson358]

She'd probably snub Diane Warren as another lowly song writer.

[@johnhamilton2588]

Totally explains why they had never met previously, right?

[@hughmoore3251]

We won tickets to one of her shows couple years ago. (Wouldn't have gone otherwise.) It was the second night at that venue. She'd started FIVE HOURS late the first night, and was FOUR Hours late the second. Didn't apologize or explain, either night. Such utter disregard for her audience / for other peoples' time.

[@rickv4473]

I guess she showed her true colors

[@SThompsonRAMM_1203]

Wow, I never thought I could have less respect for Madonna than I did before. Who knew?

[@jorgevillavicencio427]

@Steve Thompson I'm right there with you. I hate to be this crass, but I wouldn't piss on her if she was on fire.

[@iddddaduncan]

TRASH

[@BigSkippy1263]

I did.

[@paulrobinson3213]

@@jorgevillavicencio427 Fire wouldn't piss on her if she was on it

[@jorgevillavicencio427]

@@paulrobinson3213 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@keitherickson9058]

those of us who knew her from Rochester, Mi. are in no way shocked by this flippant reaction to meeting her song-writers. she was a prima-donna prior to having any commercial success. ask her brother how she went about treating her own family as she rocketed to super stardom.

[@kconrad5893]

Her sister was even Oprah in the 80s talking about what it was like to be her sister, especially after she got famous. It’s here on KZbin.

[@wmbrown6]

I hope she wasn't of the same family tree as Don Ciccone, ex Critters and Four Seasons . . . G-d forbid . . .

[@nunyabidness674]

Sure thing buddy, now where'd I put that list of random musical artists family members... Seriously, putting forward an nearly unattainable reference is the same as saying "Just ask Zor of planet Hyerma-buhnah! He'll vouch for it!"

[@johnscott6481]

It does seem hypersensitive to hold someone,who had everything and everyone pulling up on them to one rude moment,or a pop star,or any human to have a moment of bad manners remembered forever seems petty...if that's worst thing anyone of us ever claimed to have done, wed feel pretty good about ourselves

[@marterisher2335]

Madonna proves to be exactly who I always imagined her to be.

[@ziweiyuan]

I do wonder what she was thinking, though. You're standing there facing two people who helped make you who you are...do you acknowledge the debt? My guess is, in her pride, Madonna didn't want to face up to it.

[@10scdreamin]

When I saw her roll her eyes at Oprah Winfrey-ugh! How rude and arrogant! Yet she frequently treats people with contempt.

[@aaronleverton4221]

@@ziweiyuan It's possible she thought it would be a funny comeback. A skilled comedian could make something like that work very well. Un unskilled wannabe comedian would destroy it and come off looking like a thermonuclear jerk and you wouldn't know from that single interaction whether they were an actual jerk or simply not capable of comedy. Madonna has left plenty of evidence around to suggest that even if this was an attempt at comedy gone wrong, she's very self-focused and views the contributions of others as being entirely consumable, to be sucked up, used, spat out and then discarded when no longer fitting into the image. If you want to call that being a jerk, don't let me stop you.

[@AABB-bm9kk]

Please! You don’t have to be BFF with her ! You think all those male rock stars are so fun to be around all the time (if you aren’t a groupie ) ? All I’m interested with Madonna is her tracks and her videos. She is an atrocious actress, But she’s made some great pop records, and some cool videos. Period.

[@Reno_Slim]

@@AABB-bm9kk Madonna was never a "rock star".

[@jeffreyallan4525]

Billy and Tom also wrote "Alone" which was made a hit by Heart. I was floored when I learned that Tom did the high background vocals. Being a male high harmony voice for Ann Wilson is a tall order.

[@ProfessorofRock]

They are an amazingly talented songwriting duo.

[@retread1083]

I guess they liked to push the boundaries at times. They wrote "I Touch Myself" for Divinyls. Cool song and definitely controversial.

[@Katerina9256]

That was mostly Nancy but yes he was on there too...you're right, backing Ann a tall order 😄

[@fivestring65ify]

@@retread1083 Great song. Pure 80's magic.

[@ciconneannamae9599]

... and also ETERNAL FLAME (Bangles), TRUE COLOURS (Cyndi Lauper), SO EMOTIONAL (Whitney Houston), LOOK ME IN THE HEART (Tina Turner), I DROVE ALL NIGHT (Roy Orbison) ...

[@HandmadeDarcy]

She “Incorporated” everything from the demo - what a kind way to avoid saying she brought zero of her own to the song; The kind of graciousness that comes from the security of true talent.

[@zorakj]

It was early in her career, they said. I’m sure as she became more confident she did more with later songs. But yeah, the songwriter seems really nice.

[@gregmarquez8720]

Her label was playing it safe. I don't think on her first album she really had much say. She was a no body performing in nyc clubs couch surfing.

[@nancypiccirillo405]

I read how she treated her brother, her own flesh and blood, and it wasn't very nice. Who does she think she is?? She has a lousy voice, flat ass (now she has a pamper ass), she's had so much plastic surgery she's competing with Michael Jackson and Janet, she sleeps with the hired help, and can't keep a husband. Do the words trailer trash come to mind??

[@richardcranium5048]

@@zorakj don't be sure

[@tednorton5150]

Actually songwriters prefer in general that first releases follow the production demo if one is made. Steinberg was honestly pleased.

[@drumcdoo9050]

My friend who's a pilot had one of his mates relay a story about her. He is a pilot too and has flown royalty, billionaires and celebrities all over the world. He flew her to a destination and when disembarking she said to him "Don't you dare look at me" He is ultra professional and was aghast at her appaling behaviour. In all his years he has never known anyone who is such vile and disgusting human being. Like the saying goes, "You can take the girl out the gutter, but you can't take the gutter out the girl"

[@drowningin]

Don't you dare read this comment!

[@atvflareandmr.tinkles5334]

I've heard rumors that Prince was the same way

[@richardcurtis2693]

The girl was and is the gutter

[@debbieolandese4912]

@@atvflareandmr.tinkles5334, I would have a hard time believing that. I have always heard Prince was a humble person. And I believe he showed it at the concert where I saw him play in OKC.

[@atvflareandmr.tinkles5334]

@@debbieolandese4912 Acting that one way in public and acting another in private. The way the story was told he was talking to employees at a concert. Some of the guards I believe, I can't say I whole heartily believe it. But, it's something that I still consider as a possibility.

[@thetallman1256]

What a horrible person. He seemed like a genuinely nice guy who really didn't deserve that treatment, not to mention his obvious contribution to her early and rapid success. Awesome work and video, as always.

[@hectorcornejo1468]

Honestly that story is in keeping with a lot of different stories I have heard about the woman, just arrogant, selfish, a diva in the worst way imaginable. Its just sad.

[@guerralg63]

Perfect example of how manufactured "talent" treats real talent. Madoga cant sing, couldn't then, definitely cant now! I never understood why people even liked music industry creation. A fake in every way!

[@rodh1404]

@@guerralg63 The songwriter himself says Madonna's version is one of the best he's heard. She has talent and the song probably wouldn't have been as popular if it had been sung by anyone else. That doesn't make Madonna a good person, but her ability as a singer is real.

[@guerralg63]

@@rodh1404 , well then somewhere along the line of life she lost that ability, because during covid lockdown she was singing in her bathroom and i heard no trace of a singing voice come out of her. I've seen many interviews with many older vocalists and when they would speak about a song and sing a bit of it to describe it I heard their singing voice. Watch old interviews with Judy Garland, Rosemarie Clooney, Doris Day, Mel Torme, Robert Goulet, Cass Elliot, and more and they'll sing a bar of the song and you'll hear their singing voices, then listen to madona and it's non existent. I believe that the manufacturing of pop stars has been going on for a long time now, and I believe it started with her. I even heard Cindy lauper sing a capella and she has a singing voice. Madona has received the benefit of voice enhancement technology to assist her. I do not believe she is a real singer. I believe she lip syncs her live performances. I think the music industry found a woman who was willing to do WHATEVER it took to be successful, and they found a cash cow in the process. I've never liked her music, her songs are shallow pop, and her personality stinks. I'll never forget an interview she did with Arsenio Hall. She was childish and nasty and RUDE! When people say that people in the music industry se their souls to the devil to gain fame and success I believe it in her case!

[@eduardochavacano]

And this guy wasnt trashing Madonna. He was just happy to have met her and proud to be part of her history. While vile people in the comment section wants burn her at stake for something their mama Karen do all the time when they call customer service.

[@georgemathie8123]

What I love about this channel is you give love to the creators and songwriters of our favorite songs it's guys like Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly that deserve to be recognized for their amazing songcraft

[@akbarshabazzjenkins2436]

9

[@jenking2791]

It would be nice to go back to the old days when singers gave the names of the songwriters before they sang their songs, i.e. Sinatra and Buble who both did/do this.

[@georgemathie8123]

@@jenking2791 you are so right and it made you want to seek out other songs written by the artists who contributed to the songs one of my favourites is Russ Ballard he wrote since you've been gone by rainbow, you can do magic by America to name a few

[@kennethnichols5181]

This guy is a superstar! "...with songwriting partner Tom Kelly; together they two wrote or co-wrote the No. 1 hits "Like a Virgin" by Madonna (1984), "True Colors" by Cyndi Lauper (1986), "Eternal Flame" by the Bangles (1989), "So Emotional" by Whitney Houston (1987) and "Alone" (covered by Heart in 1987). They also wrote or co-wrote the hit songs "I Drove All Night" (recorded by various artists, 1987), "I Touch Myself" by Divinyls (1990), and "I'll Stand by You" by The Pretenders (1994). After Kelly retired from music in the 1990s, Steinberg collaborated with other songwriters. With Rick Nowels and Marie-Claire D'Ubaldo he wrote the hit songs "Falling Into You" (covered by Celine Dion) and "One & One". He has written hit songs with Josh Alexander including "All About Us" by t.A.T.u. (2005), "Too Little Too Late" by JoJo (2006) and "Give Your Heart a Break" by Demi Lovato (2012)."

[@crnkmnky]

Songwriters are essential. ❤️

[@ereceeme]

Its realy song writers and arrangers which make singers. Singing by its self is only a small part

[@darrylrossetti394]

True colors is a great song.

[@splenderella9]

I see they specialize in writing for female artists!

[@SW-zu7ve]

You really should give credit for your copy and paste......

[@rustybones99]

Great interview. He seems like a real down to earth guy who takes his craft seriously.

[@OriginalWhiteDevil]

Exactly how I imagined Madonna would be with people she thinks is below her.

[@paulbradley705]

many,many,many people have been under Madonna

[@TheDivayenta]

I hope she enjoys her never ending cosmetic surgery to the point of being unrecognizable.

[@daveyboy_]

She thinks lots of people are below her.

[@freedomfries6618]

@@daveyboy_ The people she considers beneath her include all of humanity.

[@meeeka]

I remember her during her pre-fame CBGB days, she had nothing, was nothing then. Wait, she was at CBGBs, around the corner from where David Byrne lived, so that was something. But she made herself into a pain and voilà!

[@cariwaldick4898]

I can't imagine. Being an unknown artist, getting a song written for you, that then becomes a number one hit and launches your career....and you don't set up a meeting to thank them, or call them, or send a gift basket every day for a year? Wow.

[@mattg5791]

100% agree. Some guy replied to another message saying he felt the title was clickbait and excessive; I couldn't disagree with his take any more. She MAY have matured since, emphasis on may, but she was about as revolting as you can be during their interaction.

[@rderyk]

.........she was rude.......that's what happens when drugs & air gets in the artists' head........never liked Madonna ever anyways.........

[@espojespo5]

@@rderyk she always struck me as super snobbish and a huge primadonna.

[@vincenzodemarco7983]

Yes, and without reading any other comments about this 'brief encounter' with Mad-Donna, I will confess that I never liked this person for a Host of reasons, all similar to this Splash of Disrespect. These Great songwriters should have been placed on a platform for the song that launched her. (I've met them All, almost, and there is One thing that stands out: Pop Stars are either Humble and Good Natured, or Run-Away Ego Fks better off Forgotten)(I Love the World of Rock/Pop Music)

[@vincenzodemarco7983]

@@rderyk Truth, Spot On.👍

[@PR-fk5yb]

The major issue not being discussed here is how could a song interpreter did not want to know or was not curious about why or how someone wrote that song. I know I would.

[@marisarhodes2446]

She wanted the public to think she wrote it, that's why many performers hate meeting the songwriter.

[@katherynemero4118]

not like a virgin. I have zero interest what bs inspired a song this stupid.

[@jamesfeldman4234]

This story illustrates the differences between real artists and low-talent performers. A real artist would welcome and cherish the opportunity to meet the songwriter or songwriters of the great songs he or she was singing. Take Frank Sinatra, for example. He not only made a point of meeting the great songwriters, but was friends with many of them. At live performances, Frank always made a point of publicly naming and thanking the songwriters. But the difference between a truly incredible performer like Frank Sinatra and a tawdry wanna-be like Madonna is the difference between class and crass.

[@TanisHalf-Elven]

Yeah, getting shit faced, picking fights he called in goons to finish, fucking other mens wives, and being mafia trash counrs as class you may wanna move the fuck outta Jersey, and see what people that sont drag their knuckles on yhe ground look like. Its a big world out there

[@josevillarreal9920]

@@TanisHalf-Elven Oh shit! 😂 Lol

[@TanisHalf-Elven]

@@josevillarreal9920 bro, I know I dont know you, but know Ive seen you comment on other stuff on KZbin. World just got a little smaller for me lol

[@robertloerwald3]

Plenty of great artists are terrible humans

[@CeliriaRose]

Being and artist and having talent has no real relation with being a decent person. I agree that Madonna was awful but calling her not a real artist or a low talent performer is laughable. At the end of the day there's a reason behind the idiom of "don't meet your heroes". Many great talents be they writers, singers, songwriters, painters, game developers, or whatever else are also awful people. Talent and skill doesn't really care who someone is. There's no moral standing to who can create.

[@wheelzwheela]

I still remember Flea calling Madonna a “turd burglar”.

[@andrewarredondo8003]

BAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!

[@patrickfraley4545]

The meeting Madonna story is why I have infinitely more respect for bands that write their own songs. Even a lot of country artists don't write their own material but most of them acknowledge who did. Having written some complete songs myself that went nowhere, I'm fascinated with inside baseball type stories.

[@LilyGazou]

Are your songs on your channel?

[@patrickfraley4545]

@@LilyGazou I don't have a channel but nice of you to ask. I'm a hard rock kind of guy that contemplated getting into the songwriting game back in the 90s aimed at country/crossover artists. Paul Overstreet and Mark Sanders were somewhat what I wanted to be.

[@ddellwo]

Yes - I have this argument with my wife all the time! There is a huge difference between an “artist” and a “singer”…….!!!!

[@StefanDot]

What about all the other 234234234 songs madonna wrote herself?

[@patrickfraley4545]

@@StefanDot Being totally honest, I understand she has written or co-written many of her songs. Though with some people, they get a co-written acknowledgement for changing a few words. That aside, my beef with actions like was described is that a song that breaks you or furthers your career to another level (and wasn't written by you) should be treated with a little gratitude. Said songwriters aren't slaves to ungrateful singers or bands. My 5 cents with inflation.

[@jrwojick]

Great conversation. The Madonna introduction was so unbelievable (and yet completely believable) that I had to back it up to make sure I heard it correctly. Such a trash response to that meeting.

[@foreverinteriors]

I hope they made millions from that hit, they deserve it. Can't say anything good about Madonna after that description of her introduction to the song writing duo

[@thorawilson1466]

Shes a bore

[@scottjimenez653]

: shouldn't that word start with a "wh" not a "b"?

[@foreverinteriors]

@@scottjimenez653 u lost me

[@Diana_0071]

If you think your opinion is poor of her now just wait till you see her Truth of Dare documentary. There's a scene in there where she laughs at one of her female employees (don't know the employee title), but Madonna laughs at her because this employee of hers took her aside to talk to her about he concerns about her previous night out. She was either drugged or passed out from drinking and was anally raped and was bleeding and all Madonna did was laugh at this woman. Didn't ask if she was ok or ask if she called the police. All she did was laugh.

[@foreverinteriors]

@@Diana_0071 that's new money for yah. Way more money than brains.

[@edthesecond]

In hearing how Madonna snubbed two of the people who made her career, I've got another story for you. The Stones were playing Oakland and staying at a big hotel near Union Square in SanFran. Keith Richards walked over to a little Blues Bar on Geary, place called the Blue Lamp. He had a couple of beers, then asked the local blues band that was on stage if he could join them for a set. They handed him a guitar. After the set, he thanked them, had another beer, and left. Madonna is a pop star and a celebrity, Uncle Keef is a real musician.

[@kennethlatham3133]

That's a cool part of town. My dentist's office was right there. Get my teeth drilled and look out over the park at that tall statue. Then go wandering around all the art museums with a head full of Novocain.

[@2degucitas]

He know to whom he owes his origins.

[@Srekwah]

I seem to remember him doing that here in Melbourne, Australia during a tour. Just showed up in a Richmond bar.

[@MurderMostFowl]

I personally have just enjoyed the fact that Weird Al’s career has lasted longer than Madonna’s. It must annoy her that he’s more culturally relevant in 2022 than she is.

[@scrappy7571]

Madonna who?

[@wmbrown6]

Not just Mr. Yankovic. Cyndi Lauper, though her chart career fizzled out before the '80's did, came out more unscathed and ahead of the game. She's a better actress than Madonna too, B.T.W.

[@youtubesfavs2285]

You’re delusional, Madonna still tops the charts 5 decades in her career. Weird Al is a relic of the past

[@levisguy53]

indeed, last Madonna album i bought Ray of Light from 1999. course i bought it years later, but won't buy anything beyond that point from her.

[@user-kcrpine]

Any success she has today is from delusional feminists who care more about her biology than, ahem, talent.

[@okolekahuna3862]

I always thought that Madonna was a showman more than a recording artist, or so she probably thought of herself. She proves it when she snubbed the writers of her first big hit. Props to all the songwriters out there, who are unsung heroes.

[@robertthomas5906]

She's a movie star. She did in a league of their own LOL.

[@StefanDot]

her first big hit was Holiday and is written by her

[@brianstewart2032]

Madonna is (or was, T & A don't last) an entertainer. Never a singer! I remember going to Evita and hearing her butcher all of the songs she sang and the only singer in the movie was the Spanish guy who played President Peron and I don't think he ever claimed to be a singer. Have to say I don't think she can act either.

[@otaku_mclovin4209]

Madonna pole hopped her way to the top. Just like Marilyn Monroe. Neither was ever talented. Let me rephrase that. Neither was talented I'm any wholesome or decent sense.

[@swianema57]

"Props to all the songwriters out there who are unsung heroes". No pun intended? That was a good one and beautifully said.

[@southerncomfort7490]

The great British director Alan Parker directed Madonna in 'Evita' (1996). After the completion of the film they had a party. At said event Parker presented his star with a framed cartoon of her carrying out her vocal training exercises. The bubble above her head stated: "me,...me,.....me,.....ME,.....ME!!!" Sadly, history does not record whether she laughed or not.

[@kevinwilson9589]

One of lifes little treasures is seeing Madonna turn into an old bag.

[@johnwedgbury6817]

Yeah and it's even funnier when you see the state of her desperately trying to hold on to youth. You can't buy class. Helen Mirren for instance knows class, she grew old gracefully

[@bridgetortiz7520]

Lol agreed! It is really sad to watch her desperately try to stay relevant and don't even get me started on the 24 yr old " boyfriend" she has. Ugh...wat a mess.

[@davenone7312]

Well youre gonna have to wait alot longer for that to happen!

[@jimmyjameson8705]

Omg yes.. She's hideous.

[@williamstevenson3049]

@@davenone7312 Madonna has been an old bag for years, but having half inch thick makeup doesn’t allow you to see it💄💄

[@josephalvaro5244]

I wouldn't expect anything more from her.Without these talented songwriters and great producers she's had shape her career,she'd be residing in the where are they now files a longtime ago.

[@amyrussell860]

As a then high school student, I couldn't stand Madonna. Even though my peers loved her, something about her just rubbed me the wrong way. However, I enjoy learning about who was behind making the songs of my growing up years and how others have covered them. I haven't warmed up to Madonna as time has went on so I wasn't surprised to learn about her behavior.

[@kellybarthel8060]

Yes,she seemed to be a person at the bottom of my list to spend time with. I was more of a hard rock guy in high school at the time too, my brother and I also ran the music for our local high school dances and roller skating ect. She was the only one we would not play. It being what it was especially for roller skating we would only two songs of hers to be played in a night and we wouldn't actually hit play we would have one of the girls do it. Still don't care for her, I have respect for the effort she put in, and these guys seem very nice but one of those I turn the station immediately.

[@amyrussell860]

@@kellybarthel8060sounds like back in the day we tended to think alike when it came to her music I had to tolerate my friends playing it but I changed the channel. Still do. But I have to give her credi in that she markets herself well and to me that is the secret to her success. On the other hand, I do get a good laugh when I've watched weird Al Yankovic's 'perform this way' video.

[@kellybarthel8060]

@@amyrussell860 100%

[@kaydaw24]

Our group was firmly in the Souixsie and the Banshees tribe

[@garyclements318]

Ive never cared for her, and this doesnt surprise me about her character.

[@D-Fens_1632]

One of my earliest memories of music was watching her perform this on the MTV Awards when I was maybe 5. I feel really fortunate now to have gotten cable when I was in kindergarten in 1984, just as I was starting to form memories. Due to my older sister, cousins, and the numerous Gen Xers in the neighborhood the 80's were a blur of Atari, Nintendo, and lots and lots of MTV.

[@leemundy1613]

I always love hearing the 'story behind the story', and the Professor of Rock always brings it! He's a very good interviewer, letting the composers, artists, etc. tell their story in their own words. I always come away having learned something I hadn't previously known, and I'm kind of a music trivia junkie myself. Awesome, as always, Prof...keep on rockin' in the free world!

[@Rossturnerphoto]

I'm not a fan of Madonna, but I do like some of her songs from the '80s and early '90s. I always thought that there was a time when she was more genuine, but it seems she's always been full of herself. Oh well, it was interesting hearing the story of the song from Billy. I like a lot of his and Tom's collaborations.

[@Elwaves2925]

I kind of liked Borderline when I first heard it but soon came to realise how shallow and full of herself she was and it turned me away. Never liked her or her music, to me she was one of those artists who did things for attention, not because of talent. Everything I've heard about her screams 'faking it for the media', while treating those around her like crap.

[@Rossturnerphoto]

@@Elwaves2925 that's a good point and some of the main reasons why I don't like Madonna despite the fact that I like a couple of her songs. I'm starting to think that the songs I do like of hers, it's because they're great songs and not because of anything she had to do with it. I might even like them more if somebody else had sung them.

[@Elwaves2925]

@@Rossturnerphoto You can like the songs without having to like the artist. I'm a big Oasis fan but think the Gallaghers were a pair of tw*ts, although Noel has got better over the years.

[@Katya_Lastochka]

Define "her".

[@unclej7842]

She's a legend in her own mind. She's great. Just ask her.

[@jumping438]

Fantastic interview. Love how the Professor never talks over his interviewee.

[@tomcusack884]

The Professor is not only excellent in his interviews he's also professional--researches the song, songwriters, musicians etc. so he can convey how and why the song was created. Ask intelligent questions. Then he speaks with passion, warmth, respect, and reverence in his tributes to the creators of classic music, rock in particular. Quite a talent but trust me, Adam works hard at it, a labor of love.

[@jimmagnus1200]

This guy is under rated. He is universally praised by those he interviews as well prepared, knowledgeable and an all around nice guy.

[@vincenzodemarco7983]

@@tomcusack884 Yes and Yes. He is Real Good. At first start, we thought he was another Wanna Be trying to cash in on KZbin thunder. Turns out he is Very Professional and takes his 'professorship' Seriously. We are Lucky, to have him bring us these Cool Inside stories. 🥇👏👏👏👏 Bravo Prof---!!!

[@just82much51]

The Prof REALLY knows his craft well!!! Excellent interviewer!!!!

[@DonoVideoProductions]

Actually, legally, anyone can do a parody without any approval from the artists. Weird Al just asks for the artists' blessing because he's an extremely nice guy.

[@mkaysonday2403]

Nobody’s talkin about legality, the point is about Madonna’s complete lack of gratitude, respect and common courtesy.

[@dsadlier]

​@@mkaysonday2403 Nobody (that you are replying to) is talkin about Madonna’s complete lack of gratitude, respect and common courtesy. The point is about Weird Al being a standup guy because he is not legally required to reach out to the songwriters before creating a parody of their songs but he does anyway.

[@richardkovacs2006]

it's true for the lyrics, because he writes new lyrics to the song, so it's his own creation, but is it true for the music, too? The music remains basically the same (not the performance, of course). i know Weird Al said he met Mj before making Beat it, Fat (and he wanted a 3rd one Black or White, but MJ wasn't cool with that) and MJ was credited as a co-writer on those 2 songs. I haven't checked, but that's what Weird Al said. People sue over basslines nowadays...

[@flatandsplat]

Exactly!

[@cbrreezzyy69]

@@richardkovacs2006 it’s considered a “parody” under the law, so it’s legal under “Fair Use”. “A parody is fair use of a copyrighted work when it is a humorous form of social commentary and literary criticism in which one work imitates another.”

[@1m1a]

I’ve always been a great admirer of the Steinberg/Kelly songwriting team and am really looking forward to hearing the other upcoming interview episodes with Billy! They wrote so many truly great pop songs.

[@janet4498]

The success of "Like a Virgin" kicked off a string of mega hits for Madonna (in addition to what came from her debut album before that) that made her Billboard's top female artist of 1985, and just the year before Cyndi Lauper had that honor. The song and video also inspired the whole Madonna wannabe look from the mid-'80s.

[@steveeckert8396]

What a Beaaaach. That song is what got her career going....I had a friend of mine that lived close to Madonna in the UK. The townspeople hated her....go figure huh????

[@godetonter4764]

@@steveeckert8396 everyone hated Madonna, she was so in love with herself. Probably the poster child along with Axl Rose for the obnoxious, immature, conceited Pop Star

[@indegruv]

More like narcissist breeding grounds

[@2degucitas]

Madonna was herself a wannabe, openly copying Cyndy's look in early photo shoots.

[@rtoma1974]

@@2degucitas Who didn't madonna copy? Cyndy, Debbie, Pat, Marilyn, Joan, Marlene, Jayne, Jane, Greta, Tina, Kylie, etc etc etc...

[@christophervincent8420]

I wasn't expecting anything other than the snobby worthless personality of Madonna. But True Colors would be awesome. Cindy really nailed that song. Unlike Madonna, she is actually down to earth and has personality.

[@quantumtechcrypto7080]

Never really did like her as she seemed out of touch and conceited this just reinforced that opinion. Now she is desperate like Bette milder and Cher like go away already.

[@christophervincent8420]

@@quantumtechcrypto7080 truth. She has always been a garbage of a person. Everyone knows how she really got to the top. Lots of kneel and Bob. Along with a lot from behind. Definitely not talent.

[@thereissomecoolstuff]

True colors is a timeless song we need now more than ever.

[@christophervincent8420]

@@thereissomecoolstuff well, this administration and bureaucratic cons of "scientists" have already showed their True Colors. Keep us in never ending lockdowns and mandatory never ending jabs that don't work. Plus a massive economic disaster on the verge of another great depression

[@thereissomecoolstuff]

@@christophervincent8420 that's true but when we look at our neighbors, coworkers. That's what the song is really about. The real person. Not the narrative or politics.

[@davidconaway239]

One of my fondest moments of my kids growing up in the 90’s was being out and someone mentioned Madonna. My oldest at around 6or7 says “who’s Madonna?” Can’t make a dad happier than that.

[@nashburnette7247]

Billy is wrong when he says that permission has to be given for a parody to be made ... It does not. 'Weird Al' Yankovic has often stated that Prince would never approve of Al to parody any of his songs. Al went on to say that he did NOT need Prince's permission, but he refrained from parodying a Prince song out of respect for Prince.

[@Vincent_Beers]

Without permission you can be sued, then it becomes a judges decision if the parody has changed enough and ranks as both parody and transformative. A judge can decide that it's derivative, or doesn't change enough or falls under satire rather than parody, in which case, it's not legal. He should have said you need permission to be safe, taking it to court is not guaranteed to protect you simply because you claim it's parody. There's a long list of details that need to be met and it will end up being a judges opinion whether you're safe or not.

[@jeffkili8918]

Nope The person recording the song does not need permission. They have to pay a royalty, and it may be the majority of the profit. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cover_version -- and is safe under copyright law even if they do not have any permission from the original author.

[@vandalorianvandalorian4769]

I have despised Madonna from the very first time I heard that song and my opinion of her has consistently sank every since. I am happy that your guest who co-wrote the song has made the portion of royalties that didn’t go to Madonna.

[@robster7316]

Cool story. That tune was everywhere that year and pretty controversial when it broke out. Weird Al 's parody version was hilarious and to this day, can't listen to the original without cracking a smile. :-)

[@ProfessorofRock]

No kidding. Thanks Robster. Love seeing your comments my friend.

[@nathanlansford1882]

Madonna wrote that song with "Weird Al," too!

[@robster7316]

@@nathanlansford1882 Cool!

[@lahaza6515]

A little fun with interpretation of the graceless "meeting Madonna" moment; Beatty giggled because he was notoriously shocked by the hype & sheer level of Madonna's stardom for doing what he deemed pop fluff. It was funny enough to him that she wasn't the type of performer of his generation, who had a lot of vocal talent or songwriting talent, so meeting the two guys who wrote the song was even more proof that she was manufactured & didn't even write her own songs. I dated a film & theatre producer who was part of that Hollywood guy group of friends; Gary Marshall, Beatty, Nicolson etc... Madonna actually ended up doing her first Broadway play for him so I know that her goal was to be taken seriously in that realm.. Anyway, she not only wanted to be taken seriously, not only by Hollywood, but by her boyfriend & his peers. Can't blame her for that whatsoever, but the lack of charm never helped her in that regard. So to have Beatty laugh when meeting the songwriters; was NOT a good moment for her... The last people she wanted to meet while with Beatty, were guys who wrote her biggest hit. Just my 2 cents.

[@gregmarquez8720]

That makes a ton of sense. I would add at that time she was quite the diva too. It showed on Truth or Dare.

[@warrenny]

I suspected as much. She was embarrassed that he found out she didn't write her own hits. Needless to say, she could have accepted it with humility.

[@lahaza6515]

​@@warrenny The way it looks over the years; is that she's views humility as a weakness or something. And now in the last 10 years with the trendiness of "queen" this and "diva" that, it doesn't help:))

[@moniquelegarda1842]

Yeah, that was my take, too: wanting to be taken seriously. She would have gotten more respect if she lightened up, IMHO.

[@odenknight2907]

U said exactly what I was trying to articulate in my head … 😀

[@ahwhite2022]

Wow. Subscribed. Weird to learn that so many of my favorites pop songs from of my childhood were written by the same songwriting team, and that I'd never heard of them. Keep up the good work.

[@TheObservationlounge]

Steinberg was also responsible for "I'm Gonna Follow You" (w/ his group "Billy Thermal"), which Pat Benetar covered. Linda Ronstadt and others also covered his material.

[@daBEAGLE1017]

Never knew Madoinker didnt write the song. A man writing it gave it a whole new meaning.

[@5roundsrapid263]

Respect, Shadows of the Night, and even Girls Just Wanna Have Fun were originally written and sung by male artists, too.

[@SergioMPedro]

I love your work and appreciate all the effort that goes into building this content.

[@leopold7562]

God bless you, Billy. You told the story of Madge being a complete twat with such class. No sneering, no commentary, just how it was. I’m not surprised she was so crappy to you, though, she’s got history for being a terrible person.

[@billywilson4908]

Great video, Professor! This is one of those channels that have helped get me through the year. The thing I like most about it is that it recognizes great music first and foremost. Madonna is not the only artist the Professor has covered who made great music but is actually known to generally not be a very nice person behind the scenes regardless of their public image (you be surprised). There are a few musicians that I would never want to meet due to how they’ve treated others but I am honest with myself enough to acknowledge a good song. Merry Christmas to all!

[@WillWilsonII]

Hey wow nice name

[@steeveman]

Another great interview. Love to hear more about these two song writers.

[@ProfessorofRock]

You surely will.

[@xoxxobob61]

@@ProfessorofRock I had No idea they wrote "True Colors"! What an amazingly beautiful song.

[@gordonarmit6373]

Tom Kelly was in a great band in the mid 70’s called Fool Gold, their first album had Eagles Glenn Frey and Joe Walsh produce a couple of songs. Their music was full of superb harmonies and was typical laid back west coast country rock, thanks to the amazing scope of KZbin you can still listen to those great songs today.

[@maremagnus]

*Remembering also "We are the world" she was nowhere to be found because she didn't care about the whole thing, either for the musicians, the moment, the project, the meaning of the gathering, it was all about herself and nothing else, she gave everyone a sample of who really she was from the beginning some were too blind to see it or they didn't want to see that*

[@Threadbroken]

I am happy that I discovered this channel. I always wonder what was going on in the life of the lyricist as I listen. Thank you!

[@guitarbrad]

I'll tell you why Warren Beatty was laughing - b/c he really knew her. The scene in Truth or Dare says it all. When her doctor asks her if she wants to speak off camera, Beatty cracks up laughing. He says, she doesn't want to LIVE off camera. Why would you do anything off camera? LOL

[@dhennessey1970]

Holy Crap - Billy Steinberg is one cool cat. I did not know what a prolific songwriter he was until this episode. He had a tight hold on our cultural zeitgeist by the balls.

[@eauhomme]

If it was a ballad sung by a woman in the 1980s and not written by the singer, it was probably written by Steinberg and Kelly or by Diane Warren.

[@dhennessey1970]

@@eauhomme what a gift the guy has. The story about meeting Madonna was priceless. The bulk of the planet would expect Madonna to pander to Steinberg to write her a series of hits.....Madonna responds by telling him to piss off.

[@umtozzi]

What's really sad is that as soon as Steinberg recounted what he said to madonna, I predicted to the word what her response was going to be 😟

[@kenglass7833]

Billy and Geddy Lee talk the same way and sound the same, its uncanny to me !! Love the story describing the big meet......well now you have !!!!!!! Priceless girl for sure.

[@davidellis5141]

I always felt the brilliant drums 🥁 of Tony Thompson propelled Like A Virgin into an aural masterpiece. Merry Christmas 🎄 Professor 👍

[@RBS_]

...'bout TIME someone mentioned the drumming of TONY....Thank YOU, Man....

[@hailmaryrecordings8255]

YOU are my favorite new person

[@dean9498]

Wasn't Tony Thompson in The Powerstation ?

[@davidellis5141]

@@dean9498 Yes ! Some Like It Hot 🔥 !!

[@nicholastotoro7721]

Speaking strictly in Rock terms, The Power Station wouldn’t have sounded the same without Tony Thompson.

[@spacemanspiff3052]

Since 1983 my female rock icon of choice was Cyndi Lauper, a true and sincere original. Sure, I liked some of Madonna’s songs, but I found her style both desperately sensationalist and tacky, but hey . . . it worked in propelling her to the top and into billions of dollars . . . so more power to her. My favorite song of hers is “Like a Virgin” and I am so satisfied to learn that the song writers of the song that made Madonna a thing seem like really likable guys. Great post, Professor!!! Happy Holidays!!!

[@tristramcoffin926]

Growing up in the 80s most of the girls were either in the Cyndi or Madonna camp. I remember that. I'm guessing it was like growing up the the 60s being either a Beatles person or a Stones person.

[@RetNemmoc555]

@@tristramcoffin926 I remember that also. I shared a house with a bunch of musicians, and we engaged in our own Cyndi vs. Madonna debates (I was in the Cyndi camp) even though none of us listened to them much. Years later I watched Dan Rather interview Cyndi Lauper, and came away kinda loving her. She seemed self-effacing and humble, and has obviously dealt with low self-esteem. She's done good work for good causes, and overall just seems like a good human.

[@milescoburn1845]

@@tristramcoffin926 And then there were those of us in the Dave Clark Five camp.

[@WendyDahling3]

I was definitely team Cyndi in high school. She’s an original! I did grow to like Madonna. I feel like Cyndi knows who she is (she’s the same now) where as Madonna keeps reinventing daré I say keeps looking for herself.

[@kconrad5893]

Team Cyndi! 1000 times more talented vocally than sleazy Madge and she was just plain fun. I don’t think she took herself too seriously either which is the complete antithesis of Madonna. Plus she just seems like a really nice person.

[@robcoventry574]

I remember when this song came out. It was so controversial among the "parental units". Of course, we loved it because it was controversial and it upset our parents. It cemented Madonna's career as a shock-artist. Later, we learned she had some talent. But hearing how she met the guys who wrote the song that "made" her tells another side of the story. Wouldn't most people show some gratitude for the whomever wrote the song that made your career? I mean, she sang it exactly like the demo. WOW, Madonna, that's RUDE!

[@wildbill7081]

yes very true and its crazy seeing some here giving her a pass for being a creep ..........not all artists are creeps like her

[@sethralavode9012]

I thought she had talent and wrote her own stuff.

[@gregmarquez8720]

During this era that she met the writers she was a straight up brat. This was around the Truth or Dare/Blond Ambition Tour. If you watch TOD you'll see she wasnt too nice of a person. Not to give a pass cause rudeness is rudeness but when youre as big as her, everyone wants time with you. It gets tiresome and annoying. With that said she could had done better but thats where she was during that time. She's probably a little better now.

[@gregmarquez8720]

@@sethralavode9012 she writes or cowrites her stuff now and has since Like A Prayer

[@GjpgrD]

@@gregmarquez8720 I've heard the demo from the male songwriter who wrote Like A Prayer. It was a ballad & much better than her version.

[@cindland]

What a nice interview. So refreshing to hear a guy from the music biz sounding like a “regular Joe”. I’m always shocked to hear that major iconic hits were not actually written by the groups and singers who made them famous.

[@AndySalinger33]

Professor, the new graphics card/subscribe frame between your intro and the interview looks awesome! Excellent interview and backstory here, as always. Merry Christmas!

[@kcvfr400]

I want more Billy and Tom, love hearing of the writers behind songs.

[@bigkkm]

This was a really nice deep dive into the work of a professional songwriter. Very insightful. Thank you.

[@bigkkm]

And shame on you Maddona. That was terrible.

[@jotacalvo]

Well, that pretty much solidifies and validates my utter disgust and loathing of Madonna. But, as always, so cool to hear the backstory of the talented people who are truly the minds behind the vapid creations of Madonna et al. I’ll just add my own personal thought… Weird Al is an under-appreciated genius! Thanks Professor, another insightful interview!

[@Miami-qz3ml]

Great. Hey PoR, would love to see more interviews with the songwriters. Thanks

[@ladylove3636]

What a great story to one of the most iconic 80s hits. I must have been 11 when this was released as still remember it was raining, heavily at school so instead of being outside we headed to the computer room only it was above the staff room as I still remember screaming the xrated lyrics right as the teacher stormed in - me on the table arms in the air just like all the following decades x

[@MatthewOfLondon]

What a great interview. ❤ this channel, I learn so much.

[@ezpzeee]

This was fantastic! Thank you. I have subscribed... and I "hit the bell!"

[@waynegrabert6839]

If you met Madonna and did the Wayne's World gag of bowing and saying, "I'm not worthy," Madonna would say, "I agree," and walk off. 👍

[@Elwaves2925]

Not walk off, walk over you.

[@brianoconnor7796]

1000%

[@just82much51]

How funny would it be to do that, but say "You're not worthy" and walk away from her!!!

[@MovieVigilante]

Somebody once said, be careful who you step on, on the way up, you just might meet them on the way down. Advice Madonna obviously never took.

[@TheDivayenta]

If you want a classy contrast, watch the video of Kenny Rogers singing “ Lady” with the composer, Lionel Ritchie. The love between those two was so strong and Kenny honoring Lionel in the intro is just wonderful.

[@MurderMostFowl]

What a humble guy. Great video!

[@davidnovakovich5583]

IMO, I think the writers, composers, mixers: all the behind the scenes folks, should get all the credit for great songs. There are thousands of talented, unknown singers who are as good or better than the stars. Either they chose a different career path, or just weren’t in the right place at the right time. (btw, she’s a low-life)

[@illiniwood]

True! A good example are studio musicians. They have been rocking our earbone for decades with very little credit and what ever little pay they were offered back then. Some even improvised on the spot musical sounds that are forever etched into history, yet they are rarely ever given the credit they deserve.

[@Alkes777]

@@illiniwood Some of them are being interviewed on KZbin now. Some of the studio musicians have laid down some of the most iconic riffs in popular music. Carol Kaye is worth a search.

[@deltab9768]

@@Alkes777 And Rick Beato has his own KZbin channel, was a producer/studio musician for Shinedown's first album and some other pretty significant stuff. He regularly has guests who did similar things for a range of different bands or so-called solo artists.

[@deltab9768]

For about the last 10 years, most of the singers in pop have had partial writing credits. They sometimes have co writers, so how much they actually did is up for debate, but we know some of them have been seen as co-writers on other songs they're not normally associated with.

[@pewsterbaby]

Hey Professor of Rock, Merry Christmas and/or Happy Holidays! Whichever your prefer, you're OUR go-to preference for a little merriment and happiness on a daily basis. Whether added to an already good day or, in some cases, really needed to raise someone out of a tough time, you and your videos do just that. Thank you and Seasons Greetings.

[@daddymuggle]

The original demo vocal sounds great. I'd like to hear more of that.

[@gaelenhess3484]

I really enjoy your videos. Haven't had sit down and chill on KZbin time for awhile, but it would be incredible to meet you one day and here some juicy behind the scenes stories.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Come out to the Professor of Rock live story and song series next year and we can chat. You can see the info at parkcityinstitute.com

[@gaelenhess3484]

@@ProfessorofRock Park City as 40 minutes outside of Salt Lake City where Robert Redford has a ranch and where I am moving to? Well alrighty then Professor

[@Capt.Gagan.Boparai]

Just heard the Italian sisters version, it’s amazing.. thanks professor and Merry Christmas 🎄 to you and your family

[@StrangeDevice]

Damn, what a power duo they are. So many hits!

[@patricenz]

What a wonderful and wonderfully talented person! I look forward to learning more of what he and Tom created. I'm a huge fan of early Madonna and am completely aware that her talent is riding on the backs of others, like catching the wave of the success of others. Also, knowing what is cool and bringing it to the mainstream is a pretty amazing gift - almost like a trend spotter.

[@glennmcc64]

I never really got Madonna. Never really liked her music. Always wondered how she became a star. I never questioned why Guy Ritchie called her "it" after their split, but this has confirmed many of my thoughts about her.

[@gorflunk]

Eurythmics - "Love is a Stranger" Could Annie's voice get any sultrier? Yes, yes it can and here's proof. X-Ray Specs - "Oh Bondage Up Yours!" Love Poly's voice. A big sound being set free.

[@michaeldavis6607]

Madonna had the best writers producers and musicians to thank for her career. Elton was right that Madonna can’t sing and has to lip sync.

[@johngrauman4208]

I watched her on David Letterman’s show. She didn’t lip sync on that episode. She also played a guitar.

[@mattg5791]

Doesn't make her any less of a talentless, ungrateful twit who was in the right place at the right time, nothing more.

[@nathanlansford1882]

It was her performance of it on TV in a wedding dress that put her over the top.

[@maremagnus]

@@nathanlansford1882 That sounds like the dress was more important that the song or performance

[@user-yx1qk4sk5t]

You came for this: 8:00

[@danbgt]

Enjoyed this video. All of your videos are interesting. As and old guy that has listened to rock and roll since the 50’s this stuff is from my life. However you videos are usually too long. I usually end up fast forwarding through some of it. Seems the age of KZbin has ushered in the age of impatience in watching informational/historical presentations. This one at about 10 minutes is just about right. But I still thank you for your content!

[@SlowGraffitiVideo]

To me, this really draws the line of distinction between pop stars and artists. I can equally love both, but there is a difference. Madonna had a run that lasted through some of the singles on Music and that’s a pretty rare feat to stay in the charts and release relevant material for about 16 years.

[@deltab9768]

Where would you put someone like Ed Sheeran or Taylor Swift? They don't always write their songs 100% by themselves, but they always are involved in the writing and both have written songs for other performers. Especially Ed. Does that make them pop stars or artists?

[@richardmacculloch253]

Billy Steinberg specifically mentioned the Lords of the New Church"s version. Amazing! R.I.P. Stiv.

[@arthurnied5500]

I really love your passion professor. Your interviews are very professional, engaging, and thought-provoking. Back when Madonna was a sensation she was nothing more than background noise to me. I was and still am very much a rocker. It seems that Madonna's gimmick of being raw and sensational was a glimpse into her natural personality. That is not shocking as we can see today many rap artist being revered as Heroes and clearly they are just thugs on Parade.

[@Alkes777]

Arthur Nied Background noise indeed.

[@just82much51]

VERY well said!!!!!

[@dundeedell1960]

It puzzles me to this day how she got to the level she is at. I thought she was just a fad. Aside from the fact she has a fairly decent voice, nothing is all that outstanding in my opinion. Controversial behavior sells better than actual musical talent anymore, which is pretty sad.

[@timfenton7469]

That was interesting, getting a insight into this dynamic songwriting duo. Thx.

[@paulypooper2]

Excellent interview ..

[@kissmy_butt1302]

I always felt Madonna's catalogue is nothing more than 'shock jock' or bubble gum songs. I think the best song she ever sang doesn't get fully appreciated. It is Crazy for You from the movie Vision Quest.

[@yestfmf]

And live to tell.

[@driver4011]

@ agree.....later stuff, ray of light , beautiful stranger good n early stuff , burnin up , borderline good too...like a virgin , lame , lame video....1984 MTV video award performance ....awful.......

[@lamper2]

Into the Groove is her best song written, of course, by a man! Ray of Light is second best

[@cs292]

I like “like a prayer” because she looks like my wife in that video.

[@asweetiepiebtw2032]

@@driver4011 ha you may think so but the world loved it

[@hogsandsooners]

Is anyone surprised by Madonna’s complete lack of class or humility? Having Warren Beatty by her side was the proper precursor.

[@scottcaldwell7480]

When the cast and crew of League of Their Own spent the summer filming in my hometown people had nice things to say about Tom Hanks and Geena Davis.

[@TooLooze]

Great interview!

[@janet4498]

For greatest song by a female artist or band in the '80s, there are many possibilities. What an awesome decade for talent. My personal picks (solo artists) include: "Greatest Love of All" by Whitney Houston, "Time After Time" by Cyndi Lauper, "What's Love Got to Do With It" by Tina Turner, "Total Eclipse of the Heart" by Bonnie Tyler, and "Flashdance (What a Feeling) by Irene Cara. For band/group, if we're going with female lead vocalists even if there were male band members, I'd include "Alone" and "What About Love" by Heart and "Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)" by the Eurythmics.

[@petergunn3614]

I love What a feeling, it always makes me want to sing it out loud! I would have to add Stevie Nicks "Edge of Seventeen" to the conversation

[@vaskylark]

You completely forgot Pat Benetar and Roxette, also Kate Bush.

[@Rikalonius]

Holding out for a Hero is, to me, a more epic song than Total Eclipse of the Heart. I would love to say Hot Stuff by Donna Summer, but that released in 79.

[@vaskylark]

@@Rikalonius Yeah but Donna Summer rocked the 70's. She'd have been my number one for 70's.

[@AnthonySipes]

Another epic video. Merry Christmas Adam.

[@ddellwo]

Coming Up Close - ‘Til Tuesday So many great ones from that era, but the lyrics to this tune are just so perfect and beautiful!

[@godspirate6250]

I've had the greatest respect for Kenny Rodgers when he came out and repeatedly gave Lionel Richie credit for his song, "Lady". After watching this, I have nothing good to say for that lady.

[@trog.lodyte]

That's no lady, that's Madonna!

[@splenderella9]

"Malignant narcissist" describes her PERFECTLY!

[@catherine6653]

Looking forward to future videos about these song writers. I really like the song True Colors, especially Phil Collins version.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Great song.

[@markwest2936]

There is a KZbin video where a bass player tells the story of when he was working in a studio with Madonna, when they were listening to the tapes the next day he commented on one track that sounded good and asked who the bass player was, Madonna turned round and screamed “it’s you you dummy!” Lovely woman.

[@wildizer]

Guy Pratt

[@HermesSonofZeus]

This channel is so important. The work you do is outstanding.

[@genestone4951]

Loved this. Thanks for doing it.

[@OAlem]

I recommend listening to the demo. It sounds like a parody. Tom sang it a la Marvin Gaye. Nile Rogers dismissed it originally. But then he was driving home and couldn't get it out of his head. Madonna almost never even heard it. And yes, she sang it verbatim, except for one word. She changed "girl" to "boy". Remember the industry rule: Change a word, get a third.

[@ericfreeman5795]

Interesting video, Professor. To many it went unnoticed that there were a couple of photos of Billy and Tom along with Susanna Hoffs of the Bangles. Billy and Tom collaborated multiple times with Susanna, including in the Bangles' hit, "Eternal Flame", that reached N°1 in nine countries. I'd love to see an interview of them talking about their work together.

[@TheUkester69]

If you're a fan of the film "Reservoir Dogs," then you think of the diner scene when you hear this song. Great to see and hear the guy who wrote it. Great interview.