What makes Like a Virgin & Other Big Hits! by Madonna notable?

This compilation became a commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard charts and contributing to Madonna's reputation as a leading figure in pop music. It features remixed versions of her early hits, influencing dance music trends and showcasing her ability to reinvent popular songs for club culture. Released in early 1984, this compilation followed Madonna's breakthrough album 'Like a Virgin' from 1984, solidifying her status as a pop icon. At this time, she was transitioning from emerging star to established artist, with several chart-topping hits fueling her meteoric rise.

How many songs are on Like a Virgin & Other Big Hits!?

Like a Virgin & Other Big Hits! has 4 tracks, running approximately 26 minutes.

Like a Virgin & Other Big Hits!

Madonna · 1984

26 min · 4 tracks · contemporary R&B

Danceable beats collide with playful lyrics, creating an infectious energy that defined the pop landscape of the 1980s.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Like a Virgin (extended dance remix) — This track exemplifies Madonna's playful exploration of themes of love and sexuality while cementing her status as a dance-pop innovator.
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Holiday — With its upbeat tempo and catchy hooks, this song became an anthem for celebration and freedom, resonating deeply during the vibrant party culture of the 80s.
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Borderline (extended dance remix) — The fusion of heartfelt lyrics and synth-driven melodies makes this remix memorable, representing the emotional depth within Madonna's upbeat persona.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases Madonna's early hits with infectious melodies and strong dance rhythms, solidifying her pop presence.

What we noticed

The first track features a prominent synth line that drives the rhythm, while the subsequent tracks maintain a consistent dance tempo.
Each song is presented in an extended remix format, allowing for longer instrumental sections and dance breaks.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 8/10

Defined its genre or moment. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This EP solidified Madonna's status as a pop icon with major hits.
Themes: early '80s club scene· sexual empowerment
Career context: Released in early 1984, this compilation followed Madonna's breakthrough album 'Like a Virgin' from 1984, solidifying her status as a pop icon. At this time, she was transitioning from emerging star to established artist, with several chart-topping hits fueling her meteoric rise.
Stylistic neighbors: Janet Jackson· Kylie Minogue· Lady Gaga