:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(719x357:721x359)/madonna-081624-4-b7a7bc19546f444784968fe5a5a0643f.jpg "Throwback photos of Madonna for her birthday")
An icon turns 66 today!
Madonna, born Madonna Louise Ciccone in Bay City, Michigan, changed pop culture when she released her eponymous debut album in 1983. Since then, the singer has produced many hits, broken barriers and set trends, always staying true to herself and never letting adversity get her down.
And she’s not letting up. The pop icon recently finished her twelfth world tour in May 2024. On the “Celebration Tour,” which covered 35 cities, Madonna played her classic hits, at times accompanied on stage by special guests – including some of her children.
As we celebrate Madge’s 66th birthday on August 16, 2024, check out some of her cool throwback photos below.
Creating moments
Sonia Moskowitz/Getty
Madonna appeared at the first-ever MTV Video Music Awards in 1984 in this now iconic bridal look. She later sang “Like A Virgin” and became an instant MTV icon.
At that time
Koh Hasebe/Shinko Music/Getty
The ever-confident Madonna looks directly into the camera in this sensual photo taken during her stay in Tokyo in 1985.
On the way
Robin Platzer/Images/Getty
The look may have been casual, but it was certainly not basic. The singer accessorized her black T-shirt and jeans with multiple necklaces, bright red lips, and statement earrings while out and about in New York City circa 1985.
Woman at work
Vinnie Zuffante/Getty
Madonna was photographed laughing between scenes while filming the video for her song “Papa Don’t Preach” in New York City in 1986.
The era of “Blond Ambition”
Frank Micelotta/Getty
Madonna caused a stir again when she made her way to her Blonde ambition Tour in 1990. People couldn’t stop talking about her now legendary Jean-Paul Gaultier cone bra, which she first wore on the tour.
Still in progress
Pete Still/Redferns
With lush, golden blonde curls, dark brows and red lipstick, Madge rocked the stage while performing on the Blonde ambition Tour in London in 1990.
Simply win
Kevin Mazur Archive/WireImage
Madonna proudly showed off her trophy at the 1995 MTV Music Video Awards.
Classic beauty
David Levenson/Getty
The singer of “Las Isla Bonita” was a radiant beauty at the press conference for 1986 Shanghai Surprise in which she starred alongside Sean Penn and George Harrison.
Curly hair, no matter
Ron Galella/Ron Galella Collection/Getty
Madonna posed with her American Music Award trophy at the 1987 show.
Dressed for the occasion
Ron Galella, Ltd./Ron Galella Collectio/Getty
Madonna appeared in a matching silk dress when she arrived at her “Bedtime Story Pajama Party” hosted by MTV in 1995.
Timeless fashion
Ron Galella/Ron Galella Collection/Getty
Madonna surprised her fans at the 1991 Academy Awards when she attended the show in a stunning ensemble that paid homage to Marilyn Monroe.
Smile and wave
Jim Smeal/Ron Galella Collection/Getty
The star waved happily to fans as she arrived at the 1996 Eva Los Angeles premiere in the wine red ensemble.
A Grammy winner
KMazur/WireImage
In 1999, the “Vogue” singer received four Grammys for her album beam of light.
