Madonna issues 'wake up' call on gun violence in music video

Celebrated singer Madonna has released a new music video that makes a striking statement against gun violence.

"We need to wake up," Madonna sings, as images of a gun attack in a nightclub unfold on screen.

The video also uses TV footage of demonstrators calling for stricter gun control in Washington and other American cities.

"Seeing the reality, and the brutality of things makes you wake up,” the singer told People magazine on Wednesday.

"This is really happening. This is what it looks like. Does it make you feel bad? Good, 'cause then maybe you will do something about it."

In a message on social media, Madonna urged people to "insist on common-sense gun safety legislation" and directed fans to support gun control organisations.