Madonna

Lyrics

[Verse 1: Madonna & Babyface]
Take a bow, the night is over
This masquerade is getting older
Lights are low, the curtains down
There's no one here
(There's no one here, there's no one in the crowd)
Say your lines, but do you feel them?
Do you mean what you say when there's no one around?
(No one around)
Watching you, watching me, one lonely star
(One lonely star, you don't know who you are)

[Chorus: Madonna, Babyface, Both]
I've always been in love with you (Always with you)
I guess you've always known it's true (You know it's true)
You took my love for granted, why, oh, why?
The show is over, say good-bye
Say good-bye (Bye-bye)
Say good-bye

[Verse 2: Madonna & Babyface]
Make them laugh, it comes so easy
When you get to the part where you're breaking my heart
(Breaking my heart)
Hide behind your smile, all the world loves a clown
(Just make them smile the whole world loves a clown)
Wish you well, I cannot stay
You deserve an award for the role that you played
(Role that you played)
No more masquerade, you're one lonely star
(One lonely star and you don't know who you are)
[Chorus: Madonna, Babyface, Both]
I've always been in love with you (Always with you)
I guess you've always known it's true (You know it's true)
You took my love for granted, why, oh, why?
The show is over, say good-bye

I've always been in love with you (Always with you)
I guess you've always known it's true (You know it's true)
You took my love for granted, why, oh, why?
The show is over, say good-bye
Say good-bye (Bye-bye)
Say good-bye

[Bridge: Madonna & Babyface]
All the world is a stage (World is a stage)
And everyone has their part (Has their part)
But how was I to know which way the story’d go?
How was I to know you'd break (You'd break, you'd break, you'd break)
You'd break my heart?

[Chorus: Madonna, Babyface, Both]
I've always been in love with you
(I've always been in love with you)
I guess you've always known
You took my love for granted, why, oh, why?
The show is over, say good-bye
I've always been in love with you (Always with you)
I guess you've always known it's true (You know it's true)
You took my love for granted, why, oh, why?
The show is over, say good-bye
Say good-bye (Bye-bye)
Say good-bye
[Outro: Madonna]
Say good-bye

Madonna, the iconic American singer, delivered yet another remarkable hit with her song "Take a Bow" from her sixth studio album, Bedtime Stories, released in 1994. This mid-tempo pop ballad showcases Madonna's incredible vocal range and emotional depth, captivating listeners with its heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melodies.

With its release on October 28, 1994, by Maverick Records, "Take a Bow" quickly climbed the music charts, becoming a commercial success. The single soared to the top position on the Billboard Hot 100, where it remained for an impressive seven weeks, solidifying its place as Madonna's longest-running number-one hit in the United States.

About Take a Bow

As one delves into the intricate layers of Madonna's "Take a Bow," they are immediately struck by the song's poignant and introspective nature. The track opens with gentle instrumentals, setting a melancholic atmosphere that perfectly complements the heartfelt lyrics.

The journeys explored within "Take a Bow" center around themes of heartbreak, love, and the bittersweet reality of relationships. Madonna's exquisite vocal performance infuses each verse with a raw and honest emotion that resonates deep within the listener's soul. The song showcases the artist's remarkable ability to connect with her audience on such a profound level.

Within the lyrics, Madonna paints a vivid picture of a tumultuous love affair. The words convey a sense of longing, pain, and a craving for the kind of love that seems just out of reach. Each line tells a story of resilience and vulnerability, showcasing the complexities of human connection.

The well-crafted melody and memorable choruses further enhance the impact of "Take a Bow." Madonna's soaring vocals capture the essence of the lyrics, creating a captivating synergy between the music and the message. The ballad's mid-tempo rhythm allows space for reflection, engulfing listeners in a mesmerizing experience.

With "Take a Bow," Madonna demonstrates her prowess as both a singer and a storyteller. Her ability to find just the right words and deliver them with authenticity and emotion is a testament to her enduring talent and artistry.

Released as the second single from Bedtime Stories, "Take a Bow" quickly earned critical acclaim, propelling Madonna's already stellar career to even greater heights. The song's success further solidified her status as a pop music icon, reaffirming her ability to evolve and captivate audiences regardless of the era.

Throughout her extensive career, Madonna has made a name for herself as a boundary-pushing artist unafraid to explore new territories within the music industry. "Take a Bow" is no exception. The song showcases her versatility and artistic growth, offering listeners a glimpse into the depths of her soul.

The success of "Take a Bow" on the charts and its lasting impact on music history cannot be understated. Madonna's seamless transition into a more introspective and vulnerable style with this song allowed her to broaden her fan base while maintaining her signature sound.

More than twenty-five years after its release, "Take a Bow" continues to resonate with listeners worldwide. Its timeless essence and relatable themes make it a classic among Madonna's extensive discography. The song's ability to evoke emotions and create a personal connection transcends time, ensuring its place as one of Madonna's most beloved hits.

Madonna's "Take a Bow" is a testament to the power of music and its ability to touch the hearts of people across generations. With its exquisite blend of emotion, storytelling, and musicality, the song stands as a shining example of Madonna's immense talent and unwavering impact on the music industry.

So, take a moment, press play, and let Madonna's "Take a Bow" wash over you. Allow yourself to be swept away by its beauty, and understand why this timeless ballad continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

• Release Date: October 25, 1994
• Artist: Madonna