"Bedtime Stories" is Madonna's sixth studio album, released on October 25, 1994, after a controversial period in her career marked by Erotica, the Sex book, and the film Body of Evidence. These projects faced backlash for their explicit content, leading Madonna to reconsider her image. She began with the ballad "I'll Remember" from the With Honors soundtrack, which helped her regain some favor with critics and audiences.
For Bedtime Stories, Madonna embraced R&B and hip-hop influences, collaborating with notable producers like Babyface, Dallas Austin, and Nellee Hooper. The album showcases a softer approach to love and romance, moving away from overt sexual themes. Notable tracks include "Secret," which explores spirituality and empowerment, and "Human Nature," where she addresses the backlash from her previous work. The album also features the title track "Bedtime Story," co-written with Björk.
The album received positive critical reviews, achieving commercial success with singles like "Secret," "Take a Bow," and "Human Nature." It peaked at number three on the Billboard 200 and was certified triple platinum. Bedtime Stories has since been recognized as one of Madonna's most underrated albums and is considered to have marked a significant shift in her career.
The album cover, shot by Patrick Demarchelier, features a more subdued and romantic image of Madonna, reflecting her desire to soften her public persona. Promotional efforts included performances and a planned tour, which was ultimately canceled due to her commitment to the film Evita. Despite these changes, Bedtime Stories remains an important part of Madonna's legacy, influencing many contemporary artists.
