Madonna’s VMA Sweep Puts Spotlight on Maurice Fonson, Co-Writer of “School” from Award-Winning Confessions II
Grammy-nominated, Billboard No. 1 songwriter, producer and recording artist Maurice Fonson is receiving renewed attention following Madonna’s major showing at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, where Confessions II took home Best Album and Madonna was named Artist of the Year.
Madonna led the 2026 VMAs with seven wins, with Confessions II also earning recognition in several other categories.
Among the songwriters behind the award-winning album is Maurice Fonson, who co-wrote “School,” Track 11 on Confessions II.
The song credits list Fonson, also known as Matthew Fonson, alongside Madonna, Stuart Price, Lanita LaShonda Smith, Mustapha M. Mbiakop and Jessica Ashley Karpov, professionally known as Harloe.
Fonson’s contribution to Confessions II adds another high-profile credit to a songwriting and production career that spans R&B, pop, Latin and global music.
For Fonson, the Madonna collaboration represents another significant chapter in a career built behind the scenes, writing and producing music for major artists while continuing to develop his own identity as a recording artist.
The songwriter recently confirmed his involvement in “School” after the song’s credits were officially revealed, following more than a year under a nondisclosure agreement.
“I’ve had to keep my mouth shut for over a year,” Fonson previously shared about the experience of working on the song.
“The hardest thing I’ve ever done.”
The VMA recognition arrives as Fonson prepares for the next phase of his own artistry with the release of his forthcoming FUN EP, arriving October 16, 2026.
The project’s title track, “Fun,” is scheduled for release October 15.
The five-track EP marks a new chapter for Fonson as a recording artist, blending R&B, pop, dance, club and global influences.
The project includes “Nice Guy,” “Sweet,” “Fun,” “Love Me Later 2” and “Know Better.”
Fonson’s songwriting and production credits include work with Madonna, Sebastián Yatra, Jennifer Hudson, Leona Lewis, Chante Moore, Luke James, Cali Y El Dandee, Juan Magán, Mario & Heavy D and Jasmine V.
His work on Confessions II further underscores the breadth of his songwriting career, adding a major Madonna album credit to a growing catalog of international collaborations.
As Madonna’s Confessions II enters a new chapter following its VMA recognition, Maurice Fonson’s pen is part of the story behind the album that took home Best Album at the 2026 MTV VMAs.
The “Fun” single releases October 15, 2026, followed by the full FUN EP on October 16, 2026.
Follow Maurice Fonson on Instagram: @mauricefonson
Website: mauricefonson.com