Madonna Louise Ciccone, known simply as Madonna, is a singer, songwriter, actress, and entrepreneur who rose to global fame in the 1980s and became one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
Her breakthrough came with the release of her 1984 album, Like a Virgin, which catapulted her into international stardom. And, her music often addresses themes of sexuality, gender, empowerment, and social issues, making her a trailblazer in both the entertainment and cultural spheres.
Beyond her musical achievements, she has ventured into acting, producing, and business. She starred in films such as Desperately Seeking Susan (1985) and Evita (1996), and she also founded the Maverick record label.
About the Song
“Papa Don’t Preach” is a powerful pop song that addresses a young woman confronting her father about her decision to keep her baby, despite his disapproval, and has been praised for its bold expression of teenage pregnancy and the pursuit of independence.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Released | June 11, 1986 |
| Album | Celebration |
| Writers | Brian Elliot, Madonna |
| Producers | Stephen Bray, Madonna |
Papa Don’t Preach Full Lyrics
Verse 1
Papa, I know you’re going to be upset
‘Cause I was always your little girl
But you should know by now
I’m not a baby
You always taught me right from wrong
I need your help, daddy, please be strong
I may be young at heart
But I know what I’m saying
Pre-Chorus
The one you warned me all about
The one you said I could do without
We’re in an awful mess
And I don’t mean maybe, please
Chorus
Papa, don’t preach, I’m in trouble, deep
Papa, don’t preach, I’ve been losing sleep
But I made up my mind, I’m
Keeping my baby, ooh
I’m gonna keep my baby, mm
Verse 2
He says that he’s going to marry me
And we can raise a little family
Maybe we’ll be all right
It’s a sacrifice
Pre-Chorus
But my friends keep telling me to give it up
Saying I’m too young, I ought to live it up
What I need right now
Is some good advice, please
Chorus
Papa, don’t preach, I’m in trouble, deep
Papa, don’t preach, I’ve been losing sleep
But I made up my mind, I’m
Keeping my baby, ooh
I’m gonna keep my baby, ooh, ooh
Bridge
Daddy, daddy if you could only see
Just how good he’s been treating me
You’d give us your blessing right now
‘Cause we are in love
We are in love (In love), so, please (So)
Chorus
Papa, don’t preach, I’m in trouble, deep
Papa, don’t preach, I’ve been losing sleep
But I made up my mind, I’m
Keeping my baby, ooh
I’m gonna keep my baby, ooh, ooh
Outro
Papa, don’t preach, I’m in trouble, deep
Papa, don’t preach, I’ve been losing sleep
Papa, don’t preach, I’m in trouble, deep
Papa, don’t preach, I’ve been losing sleep
Papa, don’t preach (Oh, I’m gonna keep my baby)
Papa, don’t preach (Ooh)
Papa, don’t preach (Don’t you stop loving me, daddy)
Papa, don’t preach (I know I’m keeping my baby)
Similar Songs Like Papa Don’t Preach
If you are into rebellious pop music or the pop genre, here’s a list of recommended songs that you might love to try:
- Like a Prayer: It is a powerful pop anthem that seamlessly mixes gospel and pop elements with its provocative lyrics about faith, love, and identity. The song was a defining moment in Madonna’s career, pushing the boundaries of pop music.
- Material Girl: This became a popular anthem that depicted the consumer-driven culture of the 1980s. The song’s catchy beat and playful lyrics highlighted Madonna’s cheeky commentary on materialism and societal expectations.
- Like a Virgin: One of Madonna’s early hits, this track captured the essence of innocence and new love, with its catchy chorus and bold theme.
Awards for The Song
| Category | Awards |
|---|---|
| Grammy Nomination | Best Female Pop Vocal Performance (1987) |
| MTV Video Music Award | Best Female Video (1987) |
Similar Artists Like Madonna
Here’s a list of similar pop-indie artists that you might love to browse through:
- Lady Gaga
Genres: Pop, Dance, Electronic, Art Pop
Top Albums: The Fame (2008), Born This Way (2011), Artpop (2013) - Kylie Minogue
Genres: Pop, Dance-Pop, Synth-Pop
Top Albums: Fever (2001), Impossible Princess (1997), Golden (2018) - Cher
Genres: Pop, Dance, Rock
Top Albums: Believe (1998), The Farewell Tour (2003), Heart of Stone (1989) - Janet Jackson
Genres: Pop, R&B, Dance-Pop, Hip Hop Soul
Top Albums: Control (1986), Rhythm Nation 1814 (1989), The Velvet Rope (1997)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Song Papa Don’t Preach About?
The song tells the story of a teenage girl who has become pregnant and is telling her father that she has made up her mind to keep the baby.
What Genre is Papa Don’t Preach?
The song is a mix of dance-pop with elements of baroque, post-disco, and classical music.
Why was Papa Don’t Preach Controversial?
The song’s lyrics about teenage pregnancy and keeping the baby were polarizing. Some critics thought it seemed to support teen pregnancy, while others viewed it as a message about personal choice and responsibility.
