As Madonna embarks on a new world tour, she is the artist behind this week’s From The Vault pick. We present her sultry rendition of ‘Fever’ from the early ’90s.
A cover of the song made popular by the classic Peggy Lee, ‘Fever’ was released as an international single from Madonna’s controversial fifth studio album, ‘Erotica.’ On the track, her soft, seductive vocals provide a stark contrast to the thumping House beats of the production, courtesy of Shep Pettibone, making for a surprisingly refreshing remake.
Although it wasn’t commercially released in the US, it became her 15th #1 hit on the Billboard Hot Dance Club Play chart. It was a success in Europe, peaking at #6 in the UK, #1 in Finland, and inside the Top 20 in many other countries.
Directed by Stephane Sednaoui, the song’s accompanying visual sees the entertainer sporting several edgy looks in front of kaleidoscopic backgrounds. This editorial affair continues to be a reference for Pop artists to this day (hello silver body paint!).
Whether it was lauded or loathed, Madonna wasn’t afraid to push the envelope during the first part of the 1990s. The ‘Erotica’ era is living proof of that. Sonically and visually top-tier, the material she was serving up stood the test of time and was able to receive its recognition later.
Although we may not have been as enchanted with some of Madge’s more recent efforts, there is something to be said about her uncanny ability to remain an exciting music act even 40 years into her career.
All hail the Queen of Pop!
