The Video Vault

Madonna, what happened to you? Remember when you were provocative and sensual, yet still had a sense of humor? Remember when you used to make the Pope angry, and consequently make prudes everywhere scream in despair? Those days may be ancient history, but I'm glad I can still watch videos like 1995's "Human Nature" and reminisce. This video is fiercer than all of Tyra's wigs put together - the clothing, the choreography, the beat, and the lyrics themselves exude a sense of ultimate power. Like a caged animal about to break free, this track builds tension, and experiments with behavioral power dynamics rarely addressed in pop music. Madonna may have grown soft with age, but at least we can seek refuge in the Haus of Gaga. Even the material girl herself can admit that.

Déjà Vu: Madonna

Although the Material Girl of yore is long gone, we still have the memory of her killer fashion sense, unapologetic attitude, and sarcasm to keep us going. Desperately Seeking Susan was one of those light-hearted films that sparked many things within me: an acknowledgment of the importance of personal style, a distaste for crappy hot tubs, and most importantly a desire to make out with Aidan Quinn. Keep in mind, the film came out in 1985 when I was a wee toddler, so I saw the film for the first time in high school. Just like every other teenage girl, I wanted to be Madonna. I still dream about the Santo Loquasto designed pyramid jacket featured in the film.

Madonna continues to be an inspiration to this day, but for me and many others, her best work was released when she was still rough around the edges, and willing to go out on a limb with both her look and her sound. She's inspired so many musicians, and many of her songs have become anthems. It's interesting to hear how artists from different genres interpret her classics, and the following rendition of 'Borderline' is a beautiful overhaul of the song (featuring Wayne Coyne from The Flaming Lips). So once you're done dancing to the original, take off your shoes, get into your sukhasana pose, and let the sounds sink in.

Lights, Camera, WORK!

Triple threat artists are hard to find. Not only can they sing and dance, but they also have personal style that screams ICON. A handful of these types of artists exist (think old school Prince, the great Grace Jones, and material girl Madonna,) but in this post-modern age triple threat artists are usually created by labels and managers, rather than found fully intact. Music moguls scour the earth searching for these rare creatures, like Charlie searching for the Golden Ticket. Look no further - our 21st Century poster boy Jonte' has emerged! Playing with different sounds, moves, looks, and flipping gender roles on their head, Jonte' is working it like no other. This Portland, Oregon native has been dancing since he was 13, working with famed choreographer Kim Borgaro (Michael Jackson, Lionel Ritchie). His background in ballet, flamenco, African and modern dance lead him to join the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in NYC, and he began performing with artists like Mya, Ciara and the Pussycat Dolls. His work did not go unnoticed. He then appeared in Madonna's Confessions on the Dancefloor documentary, and the infamous 2004 Janet Jackson Super Bowl performance. With Janet and Madonna under his belt you'd think he was satisfied, but Jonte' was just getting started. He's now taking Japan by storm, performing on popular television programs, and making crowds scream with delight. You better brace yourself, because Jonte' is the Next Big Thing. Better believe it: