[img:$uid]http://thelavalizard.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/madonna_thelavalizard.jpg[/img:$uid]

Throughout the history of Pop music, there were future artists who have had an impact on popular culture that could even be compared to that of Madonna. Now, as her recording career nears its final days, Way Back Wednesday will highlight her contributions to the music industry.

As a songwriter, live performer and visual entertainer, Madonna has proven herself to be one of the most important artists of our time, and her work has inspired generations of artists, including Christina Aguilera, Britney Spears, Rihanna, Beyonce and of course, Lady Gaga. Indeed, her creativity and influence is equalled by only a select few.

Watch some of Madonna’s best videos and performances below

Madonna may not be the best singer or even a complete original

but she is a force of nature. In fact, if she didn’t exist then the industry as we know it today would be completely different, especially for women who have been able enjoy increased freedoms as a result of her many feminist statements.

Still, as we look to the future, it is clear that Madonna’s recording career is on its last leg. Her music has become redundant and out of touch, and she only gets attention through her extreme onstage antics or via political aggression. Perhaps, she should focus her efforts on touring similar to what Tina Turner did into her 70s because we all know that nobody can sell out a stadium faster than Madonna.

What are you favourite Madonna songs? What is the best tune from those listed above? Vote in our Way Back Wednesday poll and share your opinion!

http://thelavalizard.com/...um=twitter

HAPPYPERSON said:

Now, as her recording career nears its final days,

Madonna's going to be singing Like A Virgin on her death bed just watch

Why do you think Madonna's recording career is on its last legs? She's only 54. Many artists continue to record into their 60's and 70's. People criticize her voice, but she still has basically the same voice as when she was younger. It's not damaged as some other artists her age. You don't necessarily have to huge a huge radio hit to continue recording. I find it quite silly to say that someone whose last album debuted #1 recording career is over. Many artists whose albums get nowhere near that high continue recording and releasing new material.

You may not like her last albums, but many of her fans did. I don't see her giving up releasing new albums for quite awhile yet. People always write her off and say she's over, but it never happens does it?

Glindathegood said:

Why do you think Madonna's recording career is on its last legs? She's only 54. Many artists continue to record into their 60's and 70's. People criticize her voice, but she still has basically the same voice as when she was younger. It's not damaged as some other artists her age. You don't necessarily have to huge a huge radio hit to continue recording. I find it quite silly to say that someone whose last album debuted #1 recording career is over. Many artists whose albums get nowhere near that high continue recording and releasing new material.

You may not like her last albums, but many of her fans did. I don't see her giving up releasing new albums for quite awhile yet. People always write her off and say she's over, but it never happens does it?

Fair points but it's safe to say her biggest days are behind her. And Iam aware of her tour but Iam talking about charts and general pop culture impact and Madonna at the moment, has little of that, whilst her album fizzled quickly thanks to a lackluster first single. I have nothing against her but she needs to change direction on her next project I think....