Madonna's "Erotica"

You know, people; I have never really been a Madonna "fan", which is to say while some people cream their panties over her and call her their god, I've just always sort of liked her.  Like, not love.  Nothing too deep.

However, now that she's not as popular as she once was*, I'm starting to reminisce about Madonna...especially during her "Erotica" phase.  If you think about it, Madonna actually really fucking broke ground here.

How many bitches at this time were publishing books where they were butt-ass naked on the cover?

Looking good, betch.

 The entire concept of the "SEX" book was bold.  Take something we, by the 90's, were supposed to be "okay" with and "embracing", and exploit it.  Turn it into a coffee table book, starring one of the world's biggest pop stars and most talented photographers.

Steven Meisel was really at his best here.  His trademark sensuality and black and white style work amazingly with Madonna's composure.  She is truly at the height of her beauty here.  Lush lips, painted and extended eyes, muscular but still voluptuous figure...

What I like best is the fact these photos are so...stark.  In comparison to many erotic photos, or Photo-shopped Playboy's of the time, these photos are really in your FACE.  For instance...how does this photo make you feel?

What about this one?

The entire concept was to bring you face to face with what you fantasize about...or are afraid of.

In this day and age, it's almost comical to think of something being "shocking".  Still; I think these photos stand the test of time in being beautiful, thought-provoking, and socially worthwhile.

And you can't beat Madonna at her most pin-up beautiful.

Absolutely GORGEOUS. And did you know Leo's are known for their tits...?

*I have a phobia and intense dislike of almost all things "a lot" of other people like.