Even after four decades of career, Madonna's crown as Queen of Pop has lost none of its shine. The singer proved it with a great, polished and frankly spectacular concert Thursday night at the Bell Center.
We expected to have to wait until well after 10pm, but Madonna felt punctual; She appeared on the circular and rotating stage around 9:50 p.m. to break the ice with Nothing Really Matters. Dressed all in black with a halo on her blonde hair, the singer first showed her angelic side to her approximately 15,500 fans gathered in the packed Bell Center.
But we know the Madonna; It wouldn't be long before she bared her horns for some more sensual, even risqué numbers. During the concert, which lasted more than two hours, the singer navigated with impressive confidence and, above all, self-confidence between the two poles of her personality – from angel to succubus.
After Madonna denied photographers access to her concert at the Bell Center, event organizer Evenko made available images from the Celebration Tour taken in New York on December 14th. Photo Kevin Mazur/Getty Images provided by evenko
“Hello Montreal!”
“Hello Montreal! I'm so happy to be back!” Madonna said quickly, feeling the pulse of the amphitheater. The enthusiastic screams – even howls – were unmistakable: the feeling was mutual.
Win in advance, the crowd? Absolutely. But Madonna was not only able to live up to expectations, but was also in exceptional form for this reunion with the metropolis. And that's a good thing, because the evening's program was particularly strong: reviewing 40 years of career (and success) in a truly extravagant and spectacular music marathon.
After Madonna denied photographers access to her concert at the Bell Center, event organizer Evenko made available images from the Celebration Tour taken in New York on December 14th. Photo Kevin Mazur/Getty Images provided by evenko
Full view
Because it is an impressive and perfectly oiled machine that Madonna brings to stages around the world with the Celebration Tour. Pyrotechnic effects, projections, a cabin flying above the crowd, designer and sparkling costumes… it's a real eye-catcher, more than just a feast for the ears. Surrounded by about fifteen dancers who grace both the round stage and the catwalks across the floor, the singer steers her ship with professionalism and precision, leaving absolutely nothing to chance.
Chained together without the slightest downtime, Vogue, Like a Prayer, Human Nature, Holiday, La Isla Bonita, Ray of Light, Express Yourself and other Like a Virgin served as a reminder on Thursday night of the unshakable pillars on which Madonna built her imposing empire. The past few years have by no means weakened them, as each one of them remains just as powerful, catchy and irresistible as when they dominated the charts.
No, Madonna clearly has no intention of giving up her title as Queen of Pop to anyone. And few artists of the new generation seem to be able to take it away from him.
- Madonna will return to the Bell Center stage on Saturday evening.