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Ray of Light

by Madonna · Album Ray of Light

To Have and Not to Hold

Duration 5:23

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From album

Ray of Light

Ray of Light

Madonna · 1998 · Track 11

Details

Duración5:23
ÁlbumRay of Light
Año1998

The story behind

Within the album Ray of Light, the song To Have and Not to Hold stands out for an atmosphere that evokes the softness and style of Astrud Gilberto and the general sound of Brazilian Bossa Nova. The piece, with a duration of 5 minutes and 23 seconds, was conceived by Madonna along with Rick Nowels, and its production involved Madonna herself, William Orbit, and Patrick Leonard.

The recording of this work is framed within a moment of exploration for Madonna. Following the release of Bedtime Stories in 1994, her seventh studio album, Ray of Light, released on February 22, 1998, by Maverick Records, represented a significant shift. This record delved into genres such as electronic, trip hop, and techno-pop, fusing them with elements of ambient, house, rock, and classical music. The album's lyrics and music reflect an interest in mystical themes, influenced by Madonna's adherence to the Kabbalah, her studies of Hinduism and Buddhism, and her daily practice of Ashtanga yoga. The album's gestation included initial sessions with producers such as Babyface and Patrick Leonard, but Madonna sought a new musical direction, collaborating with William Orbit.