"Burning Up" is a song written and recorded by American singer Madonna and produced by Reggie Lucas. In the early 1980s, after leaving the band Emmy, which she formed with drummer Stephen Bray, Madonna pursued a solo career, carrying demos of "Everybody," "Ain't No Big Deal," and "Burning Up." In 1982, she met DJ Mark Kamins at New York City's Danceteria nightclub. Kamins played "Everybody" to a positive crowd reaction and later introduced her to Seymour Stein of Sire Records. Stein signed Madonna for two twelve-inch singles, and the success of "Everybody" in clubs led to approval for a full album. Madonna selected Lucas to produce it, but creative tensions emerged, leading to his departure. She then brought in her boyfriend, John "Jellybean" Benitez, to remix several tracks, including "Burning Up."
Recorded at Sigma Sound Studios, "Burning Up" was released as a double A-side single with "Physical Attraction" on March 9, 1983, and later included on her debut album. A dance track with new wave influences, it blends guitar riffs, synths, and lyrics exploring sexual desire and empowerment. The Steve Barron-directed video, showing Madonna taking control after initially appearing submissive, became a foundational example of her use of provocative imagery. The song has since been performed on multiple tours and covered by several artists.
|
|
SINGLES
Everybody
Burning Up / Physical Attraction
Holiday
Borderline
Lucky Star
|
