Madonna performed " Like a Virgin " at the first MTV Video Music Awards in 1984 , where she appeared on stage atop a giant wedding cake dressed in a wedding dress , adorned with her " Boy Toy " belt buckle , and veil . The climax of her risqué performance found her " humping " and rolling around on the stage . It is considered by critics and academics as " one of the most important and most unforgettable VMA performances ever " . The song was subsequently performed at The Virgin Tour in 1985 . Madonna again donned a wedding attire and the performance featured a quotation from Michael Jackson 's similar-sounding Motown-style single , " Billie Jean " . Balloons floated out towards the audience as she rolled around the stage , carrying a wedding bouquet in her hand . The performance was included in the VHS release '' Madonna Live : The Virgin Tour '' recorded in Detroit , Michigan
MTV Video Music Awards
1984 MTV Video Music Awards
Like a Virgin (song)