Madonna Louise Veronica Ciccone (born August 16, 1958) is an American pop singer, dancer, actress and songwriter. Noted for her innovative music videos, elaborately mounted stage performances, and often controversial use of sexual and religious themes and imagery in her work, Madonna has gained worldwide fame and notoriety throughout her career. Madonna emerged from the New York City club scene to become one of the most successful recording artists of the 1980s and 1990s. Her early work consisted mainly of dance pop music, which was often dismissed by critics despite its popularity. As her style evolved and matured, she earned respect and acclaim, culminating in her winning five Grammy Awards. Her renown as a recording artist and performer led to a variety of acting roles and a film career, which has remained secondary to her music career. In 1992, Madonna also co-founded Maverick Records, which was sold to Warner Music Group in 2004. In 2000, The Guinness Book of Records credited Madonna as the most successful female recording artist of all time, with estimated worldwide sales of 120 million albums.[1] Her record label, Warner Bros., reported in 2005 that she had achieved international sales in excess of 200 million albums.[2] She is also the recipient of numerous awards for her music and videos and frequently referred to as 'the Queen of Pop' as well as one of the greatest pop icons.