Papa Don't Preach

"Papa Don't Preach" is a song by American singer Madonna from her third studio album, True Blue (1986). Written by Brian Elliot and co-produced by Madonna and Stephen Bray, the song was inspired by teenage conversations Elliot overheard outside his recording studio. Originally penned for a singer named Christina Dent, it was later offered to Madonna after Warner Bros. executive Michael Ostin intervened. Madonna adjusted portions of the lyrics and was credited as a co-writer. Musically, the track blends dance-pop with elements of baroque, post-disco and classical music. Its lyrics tell the story of a teenage girl who confesses her unintended pregnancy to her father, pleading for him to withhold judgment while asserting her intention to keep her child.