Undoubtedly a woman gone wild. Queen of Pop Madonna gave yet another memorable performance of her latest single, “Living for Love,” at the 57th Annual Grammy Awards held Sunday, Feb. 8, at the Staples Center in L.A.
Miley Cyrus and Nicki Minaj introduced the legendary pop star, describing her as a “badass, trouble-making international star,” a “powerful woman [who] is always on top,” and according to Cyrus, “our bitch.”
Madonna, who released the music video for the catchy song just days before, channeled her bullfighting, Matador-like persona in her performance Sunday. Wearing a studded black chaquetilla over a skimpy red and black sequin leotard by Givenchy, the 56-year-old icon commanded the crowd while her dozens of horned backup dancers surrounded her with precise choreography.
The bullfighting theme from her talked-about new video continued as Madge whisked around the circular stage, squatting, parading, singing, and captivating the entire Staples Center.
The star-studded crowd, including her pop protege Taylor Swift — whom Madonna recently praised for writing “some really catchy pop songs” — was on its feet as they bumped along to the performance.
The biggest surprise of all during the songstress’ approximately 5-minute performance was the grand finale, which featured a mega red-robed choir. As the harmonious group belted “love’s gonna lift me up,” Madge defied gravity and was hoisted up over her dancers as the Staples Center crowd roared in response.
“Living for Love” is the lead single off of Madonna’s upcoming 13th studio album Rebel Heart, which was leaked early after Internet hackers stole and shared several unfinished tracks. Although the perpetrator, an Israeli man, was arrested, the songstress told Australian Today last month that she was “devastated” by the incident.
“For an artist it’s the ultimate violation to have your work taken from you before you’re finished,” she reflected. “I can’t begin to tell you how betrayed I felt.”
Watch her performance above and tell Us: What do you think?
