What is rock 'n' roll? Wait, that question probably requires too much thought for a Monday. Instead, ponder this: is Madonna a rocker?

My first response to the question is, "does it matter?" But since the announcement of Madonna's induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the blogosphere has been rife with complaints that the pop star does not deserve the honor. The controversy is not about her contributions to musical culture, but whether her music actually is rock 'n' roll.

You know, my response still is "does it matter?" Return with me, if you will, to Madonna: The Early Years — 1984, to be exact.

I know much of AfterEllen.com's readership is too young to remember 1984. But trust me, "Like a Virgin" was scandalous. As was Madonna. … continue reading

The writers' strike is about to make the TV landscape very, very bleak. But tonight there are a couple of sweet spots:

100 Greatest Songs of the '90s, VH1

It's going to take all week to count them down, but Alanis Morissette and TLC are on the list, and that's reason enough to watch.

VH1.com is also offering a special collection of Lilith Fair videos. Ah, the memories of sunscreen and porta-janes! … continue reading