"Oh Father" is a song recorded by American singer Madonna for her fourth studio album "Like a Prayer" (1989). It was released as the fourth single from the album on October 24, 1989 by Sire Records. The song was not released as a single in most European territories until December 24, 1995, when it appeared on the 1995 ballads compilation "Something to Remember". Written and produced by Madonna and Patrick Leonard, the nexus of "Oh Father" was the presence of male authoritative figures in Madonna's life, most prominently her father, Tony Ciccone. Madonna's relationship with her father had soured after her mother's death in 1963 and his remarriage two years later. While developing the "Like a Prayer" album, Madonna was in an emotional state of mind due to her personal problems, which is reflected in "Oh Father".