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Material Girl

"Material Girl" is a song by American singer Madonna from her second studio album, *Like a Virgin* (1984).

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

"Material Girl" is a song by American singer Madonna from her second studio album, *Like a Virgin* (1984). It was released as the album's second single in January 1985 and became one of Madonna's best-known early hits. The song was written by Peter Brown and Robert Rans and produced by Nile Rodgers.

Background

"Material Girl" was recorded for Madonna's second studio album, *Like a Virgin*, and issued as the album's second single in 1985. It helped define Madonna's early pop image and became strongly associated with her public persona.

Composition and lyrics

The song is built around dance-pop production with synthesizers and a repeating hook. Its lyrics describe material desire and have commonly been interpreted as a commentary on consumerism and wealth.

Release and reception

The single was released by Sire Records in January 1985 and became a major hit, peaking near the top of U.S. charts. It is widely regarded as one of Madonna's most recognizable songs from the 1980s.

Legacy

"Material Girl" remained closely linked to Madonna's image and later appeared on several greatest-hits releases. The song's title also helped create one of the enduring nicknames associated with the singer.

Key facts

  • Released as the second single from *Like a Virgin*.
  • Written by Peter Brown and Robert Rans and produced by Nile Rodgers.
  • Lyrics focus on materialism and the desire for wealth and luxury.
  • Became one of Madonna's signature early songs.
  • Appears on compilation albums including *The Immaculate Collection* and *Celebration*.
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Canadian context

Madonna has had substantial popularity in Canada, and "Material Girl" is part of her internationally successful early catalogue that was widely heard on Canadian radio and television.

Frequently asked questions

Who wrote "Material Girl"?
The song was written by Peter Brown and Robert Rans.
Who produced "Material Girl"?
Nile Rodgers produced the track.
What album is "Material Girl" on?
It appears on Madonna's 1984 album *Like a Virgin*.
When was "Material Girl" released as a single?
It was released on January 23, 1985.
What is "Material Girl" about?
The lyrics focus on materialism, luxury, and choosing wealth over romance.

References

  1. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Material_Girl
    Supports: Song details including artist, album, release date, writers, producer, and general description.
  2. Rhinohttps://www.rhino.com/article/single-stories-madonna-material-girl-0
    Supports: Release context and chart success; identifies the song as a breakout hit and notes its Hot 100 peak.
  3. Songfactshttps://www.songfacts.com/facts/madonna/material-girl
    Supports: Song meaning and discussion of its lyrical theme.