by Mark Nobes, chief editor
"Gambler" was a fast-paced, synth-based, dance-pop track that gave
Madonna her eighth consecutive top ten hit of the 80s in the UK,
reaching No.4, and spending 14 weeks inside the Top 100.
The energetic song was written by Madonna and produced by John "Jellybean" Benitez, but isn't generally regarded by the media as one of Madge's finest moments, receiving a very mixed response from the critics.
The B-side was unusual in that it featured the American hard rock band Black 'N Blue with the track "Nature of the Beach".
The 12" UK vinyl (Geffen records) included the Extended Dance Mix (5:42) and an instrumental (3:53) which were both remixed and produced by John "Jellybean" Benitez and arranged by Stephen Bray.
The single sold around 295,000 copies in the UK, reaching No.4, and earning a Silver certification by the BPI.
"Gambler" also reached No.3 on Italy's AFI chart (now FIMI), No.3 on the Irish Singles Chart, No.6 on Iceland's main chart, No.7 on the Single Top 100 in the Netherlands, No.9 on their Dutch Top 100, and No.9 on Norway's VG-Lista chart.
UK 7" rear sleeve for "Gambler"
