Popular (feat. The Weeknd & Playboi Carti)

Madonna's song "Popular," featuring The Weeknd and Playboi Carti, delves into the intoxicating allure and the dark underbelly of fame. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a woman who is deeply entrenched in the pursuit of popularity, willing to go to extreme lengths to achieve and maintain her status. The repeated imagery of the devil and the references to selling one's soul underscore the moral and spiritual compromises made in the quest for fame.

The song's narrative suggests a duality in the protagonist's life. On one hand, she craves the limelight and the validation that comes with being in the public eye. On the other hand, there's a sense of entrapment and loss of freedom, as highlighted by the lines "Never be free 'cause she popular." This dichotomy is further emphasized by the portrayal of the protagonist as someone who orchestrates her own publicity stunts, only to feign surprise when the paparazzi arrive. This act of living a lie and the constant need for external validation reflect the hollow nature of fame.

The collaboration with The Weeknd and Playboi Carti adds layers to the song, with their verses echoing the themes of addiction and the relentless pursuit of material wealth. The Weeknd's lines, "She just want the fame, I know what she fiends," and Playboi Carti's repetition of "Money on top of me, money on top of her," highlight the cyclical nature of this obsession. The song ultimately serves as a cautionary tale, warning of the emptiness and perpetual dissatisfaction that can accompany the relentless chase for popularity and material success.