Tomás Mier's new book Madonna: Into the Groove tracks Madonna throughout this pivotal year, but the real purpose of this book is to fully air the four photoshoots Ken Regan conducted with the singer that year. Two of these shoots are among Madonna's most iconic and they really emphasize the two sides of her personality during a time when she was often reduced to little more than a hot body. Regan's People shoot slotted right in with that stereotype, capturing Madonna in full belly-baring mode in her "Healthy" crop top, in a variety of coquettish poses in what may be the sexiest photoshoot ever conducted.
The pictures he snapped at Live Aid reveal a very different person, fully clothed despite the punishing summer heat ("I ain't taking off shit today," she fired at some asshole in the crowd who implored her to disrobe). She is never posed but lost in performance, completely natural, in full command of herself and the audience, which comes through despite the stillness of still pictures. Her power is even clear in the photos that show her sharing the stage with Niles Rogers and the Thompson Twins or posing with the festival's other stars. The shots may feature luminaries such as Tina Turner, The Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan, and the overwhelming hair of Hall and Oates, but the eye just wants to find Madonna. No belly-baring necessary.
The main thing the two shoots have in common is the way they highlight Madonna's natural skill. She was a tireless worker, both when building the sexy persona that brought her so much attention and when performing her art, but she made it all look effortless.
Two other shoots round out the book, one conducted in the gym and one in her hotel room and both in black and white. Although there isn't great variety, each image demands to be studied, capturing a superstar perched on the cusp of superstardom.
