MADONNA FRIDAY: SUBSTITUTE FOR LOVE (DROWNED WORLD)

Madonna is not one to complain, but she is one to give her opinion. In the summer of 1998 Madonna was riding high off the critical and commercial success of her Ray of Light album, and the dreamy, ethereal song Drowned World/Substitute for Love analyzed that success and how it factored into Madge's life. As much a criticism of herself as the trappings of fame, the song was introspective, enlightening and a refreshing look behind the curtain of a superstar's life. Though the song was not released in the US, it was a top 10 hit in the UK and the video is pretty awesome. Directed by Walter Stern, it shows a typical, frantic day in the life of Madonna, with stalkers and hangers-on who want nothing more than a piece of her fame. The bizarre special effects used on the faces of the wannabes is creepy and sends a very pointed message about not being able to trust anyone when you are living in a bubble. Don't feel sorry for Madonna though, because she comes home to a loving child and a very comfortable life. Enjoy the video for Drowned World/Substitute for Love.