Torn From the Headlines is where we showcase videos that, in the vein of Childish Gambino's powerful "This Is America", offer commentary on the state of the world. And, well, given the current state of the world, things could get dark, but we'll try to lighten the mood with the odd bit of social satire as well.

When it comes to musical acts who use their art to make strong political statements, Madonna doesn't usually get slotted into the same category as, say, Rage Against the Machine or Public Enemy. But the long-reigning Queen of Pop has used the video for "God Control" to highlight the issue of gun violence in the United States—in the most graphic way imaginable.

Consider that your warning: "God Control" includes scenes of a nightclub shooting, likely inspired by the one that took place at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida, in 2016. In that horrific incident, a lone gunman killed 49 people and wounded 53 others.

The clip was directed by Jonas Åkerlund, who is no stranger to controversy. The Swedish filmmaker made the video for the Prodigy's "Smack My Bitch Up", among many others.

As for Madonna's rationale behind the project, she can probably explain it better than anyone:

 

 

 

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This is your wake up call. Gun violence disproportionately affects children, teenagers and the marginalized in our communities. ..................... Honor the victims and demand GUN CONTROL. NOW. Volunteer, stand up, donate, reach out. Wake up and insist on common-sense gun safety legislation. ..................... Innocent lives depend on it. Join me in supporting the following organizations: @everytown @marchforourlives @gaysagainstgunsny @sandyhookpromise @humanrightscampaign @thetaskforce @transequalitynow @ncadv @onepulseforamerica @SUPGV @mpjinstitute #WakeUp #madamex #godcontrol @jonasakerlund @bcompleted @andylecompte @eyobyohannes @visionaaron

A post shared by Madonna (@madonna) on Jun 26, 2019 at 1:04pm PDT