Madonna showed up unannounced at The Abbey in West Hollywood last week, and what followed was one of the more remarkable nights in the iconic venue’s 34-year history. Transforming the space into CLUB CONFESSIONS to celebrate the opening of its newly expanded dance floor, Madonna and longtime collaborator Stuart Price debuted new music from her upcoming album ‘Confessions II,’ arriving July 3, giving a packed room of artists, creatives and nightlife figures an exclusive first listen to some of the most anticipated music of the year.
The choice of venue was anything but accidental. The Abbey has long been considered one of the world’s premier LGBTQ+ cultural landmarks, and debuting new music there underscored a connection to queer audiences and spaces that has defined Madonna’s relationship with her community throughout her career. It was the right room for a first listen, and the dance floor was the right place for music that clearly belongs on one.
DJs Romy, the XX singer-guitarist whose 2023 solo album ‘Mid Air’ was co-produced by Price, and Mez Monty, one of LA’s most respected house DJs rooted in the golden era sounds of New York and Chicago, kept the room moving between sets. The guest list reflected the full spectrum of music, fashion and nightlife: Addison Rae, Sky Ferreira, Lily Allen, Lola Young, Cara Delevingne, Kali Uchis, Bebe Rexha, Julia Fox, Jodie Turner-Smith, Jeremy Scott, Tom Daley, Gottmik, Symone, Sasha Colby, Trinity the Tuck and Moses Sumney among those who witnessed the debut.
‘Confessions II’ arrives July 3. If the Abbey preview is any indication, it’s going to hit hard.