Grade B

The opening twinkling notes of “Lucky Star” prove a new star was born. Not just any star; one of the ’80s biggest, trend-setting icons.

Madonna’s self-titled first album, debuting in 1984, packs dance hall hits, mostly about love.

The bass line of “Burning Up” commands dancing shoes and the smooth saxophone on “Think of Me” welcomes fun. Madonna never slows down, giving the listener a playlist for a high-energy dance party.

Her diva attitude is sprinkled throughout every track as well. She takes control of a lover in “I Know It,” a group in “Holiday,” and everyone else on the planet in “Everybody.” The pop icon that Madonna has become was clearly shown in her earliest hits.

The fun album doesn’t showcase much vocal range, but what Madonna can do is flourish strong pop music. It has paved the road for any pop act that followed, most notably Britney Spears and Lady Gaga.

Going on to defy the rules of society in her later albums with religion (“Like A Prayer”), sex (“Erotica”) and politics (“American Life”), this album has only one goal in mind: to “let the music take control, find a groove and let yourself go.” “Madonna does not push the limits with this one, she merely provides a groove to dance to with a string of hits.