Madonna

Madonna, the singer, songwriter, actress, director, dancer, and entrepreneur, came into the world as the daughter of Silvio Anthony Ciccone and Madonna Louise (née Fortin) in Bay City Michigan. When she went to New York City to seek stardom it was the first time she had ever taken a plane or a taxi cab. She said this was the bravest thing she had ever done: she entered New York with only $35 in her pocket. Her second studio album, Like a Virgin, released in 1984, made her an international sensation. She appeared in the comedic movie Desperately Seeking Susan in 1985, and that confirmed her stardom. From that day to this she has stirred controversy through the use of religious and sexual innuendos in her songs, music videos, and concert performances. Her seventh studio album, Ray of Light, appeared in 1998, and represented a new direction for Madonna in a career of new directions – incorporating elements of electronica.