Lady Gaga launched her highly anticipated Mayhem Ball tour Wednesday night in Las Vegas, and true to its name, it delivered glitter, grit and glorious chaos.
Taking over the T-Mobile Arena, Gaga gave fans a high-octane mix of career-defining hits, new tracks from her Mayhem album, and just enough theatrical flair to make you wonder if Broadway had relocated to the Strip.
A Familiar Blueprint With Fresh Twists
The tour’s opening night closely mirrored the structure of her headline-making Coachella sets from earlier this year, but with several major shakeups in the second half. Longtime fan favorites “Just Dance,” “Applause,” and the deep cut “Summerboy” made triumphant returns to the stage. “Summerboy,” a track from The Fame, hadn’t been performed in 18 years, making it one of the night’s rarest gems.
Gaga also debuted the Mayhem track “Kill for Love” live for the first time, adding to the evolving mythology of her latest era.
Never one to play it safe, Gaga gave her Oscar-winning ballad “Shallow” a complete visual makeover, performing the song mid-air from a Venetian gondola suspended above the crowd. (Because why not?)
Her live version of “Die With a Smile,” the fan-favorite Bruno Mars collab, was also reimagined, stripped of its past polish and injected with moody new energy.
And just when audiences thought the spectacle had ended, after the dramatic crescendo of “Bad Romance” and faux end credits rolled, Gaga pulled a Marvel-style twist. The lights stayed down, the big screens lit up with backstage footage, and the pop powerhouse returned in a Cramps t-shirt for a gritty encore of “How Bad Do U Want Me.” Though it had popped up in previous performances this year, this was the track’s debut as a surprise closer.
While her 2025 U.S. run is limited to just six cities, Gaga is making each stop count. She’ll play multi-night stints in Las Vegas, Seattle, New York, Miami, Toronto and Chicago through September 17 before taking the show overseas to London, Stockholm, Rome, Paris and more. The European leg currently wraps November 20.
Compared to her previous Chromatica stadium tour, this arena-based trek is a more intimate experience. But given the demand, and the scale of her spectacle, it feels less like an underplay and more like a calculated tease.
As for what 2026 holds? Gaga hasn’t said. But if the opening night of Mayhem Ball proved anything, it’s that she still knows how to keep fans guessing, and gasping.
Mother Monster racks up more history-making milestones, including Coachella, Spotify, and a record-breaking tour.
Lady Gaga is one step closer to achieving EGOT status — and she’s doing it in true Gaga fashion: boldly, iconically, and with just the right amount of sparkle.
On May 20, the multi-hyphenate superstar added a Sports Emmy to her ever-growing trophy shelf for her emotional performance of Hold My Hand ahead of Super Bowl LIX. The pre-game moment doubled as a tribute to victims of the New Orleans truck attack, California wildfires, and Hurricane Helene — blending Gaga’s signature theatricality with heartfelt advocacy.
The Sports Emmy is just one headline in what may be Gaga’s most electrifying year yet.
In early 2025, she dropped her seventh studio album Mayhem — a critical and commercial juggernaut. The record earned the biggest debut of the year for a female artist on Spotify, anchored by standout singles like Abracadabra, her highest solo debut to date.
Not to be outdone, Gaga’s Bruno Mars collab Die With a Smile shattered Spotify records for the longest-running daily No. 1 and picked up a Grammy for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. In April, she surpassed Ariana Grande to become the most-streamed female artist globally, currently ranking third overall behind Bruno Mars and The Weeknd with more than 116 million monthly listeners.
Live Shows and Legend Status
Gaga’s stage dominance continues. She wowed festivalgoers during back-to-back Coachella headlining sets in April, then broke global records with a free Copacabana Beach concert that drew over 2.1 million attendees — the largest audience ever for a female performer.
In March, she accepted the iHeartRadio Innovator Award, delivering a powerful speech that called out ageism and sexism in the music industry.
“Even though the world might consider a woman in her late 30s old for a pop star — which is insane — I promise that I’m just getting warmed up,” she said.
The MAYHEM Ball Is Coming
Next, Gaga is taking Mayhem on the road. Her MAYHEM Ball Tour kicks off July 16 in Las Vegas and will travel through North America and Europe with stops in New York, Toronto, London, Barcelona and more.
If one thing’s clear, it’s this: Gaga’s not slowing down. EGOT status may be next, but she’s already a legend in her own right.
From underground raves to glitter-drenched disco, here’s your ultimate guide to Pride party season in the nation’s capital.
The rainbow is rising over Washington, D.C., as WorldPride 2025 prepares to transform the city into the epicenter of LGBTQ+ celebration. With parades, protests, and panels on the horizon, the nightlife is bringing the pulse—and these official events offer unforgettable nights of joy, identity, and high-voltage pride.
Things kick off with chaos—in the best way. On Saturday, May 17, New York nightlife producer Luis Fernando unleashes MAYHEM: The Rave World Tour in D.C. at a secret warehouse location disclosed only to ticket holders. Headlined by Lady Gaga impersonator Nick Gaga, and featuring Drag Race alum Daya Betty, Miss Paradise 2025 Venus Mystique, and a stacked roster of drag stars and DJs, this late-night rave promises a full sensory overload. Expect top-tier lighting, massive art installations, and beats that don’t quit until 3:30 a.m.
On Friday, May 23, party with purpose at CLUB KERRI at BUNKER, a benefit bash supporting Whitman-Walker Health. Hosted by the iconic Kerri Colby of RuPaul’s Drag Race, the night includes performances by local star Cake Pop and a DJ lineup that will keep you moving. Half of all door proceeds will go directly to support inclusive healthcare initiatives. Doors open at 10 p.m. for this can’t-miss night of glam, community, and giving.
The hips won’t lie at AI Warehouse on Friday, May 31, as the official Shakira Tribute After-Party ignites following the pop star’s world tour stop. Presented by the LatinX History Project, the event features Medellín’s DJ Daiky Gamboa and Adobo DMV’s DJ Pedro Night. Proceeds support storytelling and empowerment for the Latinx LGBTQ+ community. The music is hot, the cause is real, and the vibes are electric.
KINETIC and El Mozo set the stage for Pride’s biggest week on Thursday, June 5 with Yes to All, a global dance celebration featuring Wendy Guevara—the first trans woman to win a reality show in Latin America. With DJs Leo Blanco and Onyx at the helm, this late-night spectacle invites guests to say yes to music, pride, and unfiltered joy.
When the moon rises on Friday, June 6, the garden gates swing open. Full Bloom isn’t just a party — it’s a call to transformation. Taking over 100,000 square feet of immersive indoor and outdoor space in Northeast D.C., this WorldPride main event brings together the East Coast’s most electric queer nightlife crews for a night where every beat is a blossom and every body is a bouquet.
From the legendary The Carry Nation (NYC) to the dreamy decadence of Flower Factory (DC) and the sweet seduction of Sweet Spot (BAL), three stages will pulse with rhythm and reverie. The DJ lineup — including Ed Bailey, WessTheDJ, Lemz, and Fish House Funk — promises a soundscape blooming with everything from hard house to disco-laced euphoria. And that’s just the beginning.
Sip, sway, and sweat beneath the stars and strobes. With performers, pop-up vendors, and surprises yet to be announced, Full Bloom is your invitation to dance in full color and live out loud under the night sky. Don’t forget: petals are mandatory, shame is not on the guest list, and the dress code is “unapologetically more.”
Saturday night’s crown jewel arrives June 7 with Fabric of Freedom, an expansive dance festival hosted by KINETIC and Capital Pride Alliance. With three immersive stages across 100,000 square feet, this all-night extravaganza features DJ sets from Kevin Aviance, Dan Slater, GSP, Micky Friedmann, and more. From circuit anthems to funky soul, it’s the heartbeat of WorldPride D.C.
June 7 – 140+ X FWB X XUNT X GW (World DC Pride) (21+)
Also on June 7, head to 1309 5th Street NE for XXL: Pride Warehouse Rave, a boundary-pushing event centering queer and trans joy. With a cutting-edge lineup including Juliana Huxtable, Sukubratz, and Nomiii, this party is split into two waves: the first for the 21–30 crowd, the second for a more seasoned (and spicy) 30+ audience.
WorldPride closes out with glitter and grooves on Sunday, June 8, as Horse Meat Disco returns to D.C. Known for its sweaty, soulful energy and radically inclusive ethos, the night features Dangerous Rose, Coach Chris, and more. A portion of ticket sales supports the Mid-Atlantic Leather Weekend Travel Fund.
With fierce performances, international DJs, and a joyful spirit pulsing through every event, WorldPride 2025 in Washington, D.C., is set to be a celebration of love, community, and liberation like no other!
Lady Gaga made music history Saturday, May 3, as more than 2.5 million fans packed Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro to witness her electrifying Mayhem Ball performance — officially breaking the record for the largest audience ever at a live show by a female artist.
The record-breaking event was confirmed by Rio city officials and event organizers, who said the crowd even surpassed last year’s massive Madonna show, which drew 1.6 million fans to the same iconic beachfront stage.
A Monumental Return to Brazil
Saturday’s concert marked Lady Gaga’s long-awaited return to Brazil — her first performance in the country since her Born This Way Ball Tour in 2012. And she did not disappoint.
Fresh off recent sets at Coachella 2025 and a surprise show in Mexico City, Gaga brought her full theatrical force to the Rio shoreline, transforming the beach into a neon-lit celebration of music, identity, and unity.
Local news outlet G1 reported that more than 500,000 tourists arrived in the city since May 1 for the concert. The beach, long a symbol of Brazilian culture and nightlife, pulsed with rainbow lights, fireworks, and the sound of millions chanting every lyric.
2,1 milhões de pessoas em Copacabana!
Gaga, obrigada por fazer história com a gente!
Throughout the two-hour spectacle, Gaga made it clear who she was singing for.
“This moment is for you,” Gaga told the crowd, waving a Pride flag high above her head. “Thank you for teaching us all. Thank you for your light.”
The pop star’s dedication to the LGBTQ+ community was felt in every note, especially during poignant performances of “Born This Way” and “Vanish Into You.” At several points, Gaga, her band, and her dancers became visibly emotional, soaking in the overwhelming energy of the crowd.
She also thanked fans who had serenaded her outside the historic Copacabana Palace Hotel in the days leading up to the show. “I heard you every night, all night long, singing every word,” she said. “What a present that was.”
Fans Create Encore Moment
The grand finale came with a show-stopping performance of “Bad Romance,” after which Gaga and her team bowed and lingered on stage to absorb the moment. But the crowd wasn’t done.
In a spontaneous eruption of devotion, the audience began singing “Bad Romance” again — prompting Gaga to briefly return and sing along. The impromptu encore added an unforgettable exclamation point to an already historic night.
The spectacle wasn’t just reserved for those lucky enough to be on the beach. The concert was broadcast live by TV Globo, Globoplay, and Multishow, earning rave reviews across social media.
Critics praised the production quality, noting the cinematic camera angles and immersive visuals. Many viewers compared the broadcast to a polished concert film rather than a live feed.
Fans are now speculating whether this show will be turned into an official streaming release — a fitting move for what could be the crowning jewel of Gaga’s Mayhem Ball tour.
Pop Music History Made on the Sand
With around 2.5 million voices coming together in celebration of music, identity, and love, Lady Gaga’s Copacabana concert was more than a show — it was a cultural moment.
And as fireworks lit up the Rio sky, one thing was clear: Gaga didn’t just make history. She made sure it was fabulous.
Little Monsters, grab your fishnets and get ready for some “Gothic dreams” in the desert. Lady Gaga is making her grand return to the Coachella —and this time, she’s bringing Mayhem with her.
The global pop icon is set to headline the Friday lineup of the iconic festival, marking her first Coachella performance since 2017. Back then, she stepped in last-minute to replace Beyoncé, who had announced she was pregnant with twins. Eight years later, Gaga is back on the main stage—but don’t expect a repeat performance.
“I don’t want to give anything away,” Gaga teased in an interview with Out, “but I’ll say that it’s a completely different show to what I did the first time. It’s going to incorporate a lot of the new record… and I’m so excited. I’m working on it with Parris Goebel, and we’re really having a good time.”
The new record she’s referring to? Mayhem, Gaga’s latest album, already streaming on all major platforms—and already being embraced by fans, particularly in the LGBTQ+ community, for its raw energy and theatrical vibes.
“Mayhem is, to me, a lot of Gothic dreams,” Gaga explained. “I’ve realized that’s been a part of my music since early in my career. So I’m just really thinking about the lighting, the feeling, the energy, and what I want to help people feel that night.”
And Gaga’s got big plans for that feeling. With a full two-hour set to play with, she’s aiming to deliver more than just a performance—she’s curating an experience. “It’s amazing that I get a time slot where they’re like, ‘You get two hours to make people happy.’ I’m going to do my best.”
Gaga’s mission to spread joy is especially personal as she speaks to her longtime relationship with her queer fans. “I just want to make people happy, so I hope that my queer fans feel happy listening to the music,” she said. “To me, music is a gift and contribution to culture.”
She adds, with her signature sincerity, “It’s an honor to be in conversation with the queer community all of these years. Thank you so much for giving me so much inspiration.”
Mayhem is available now on all streaming services. For tickets and information on Lady Gaga’s Coachella performance, visit coachella.com.
Lady Gaga has officially announced the dates for her highly anticipated 2025 “Mayhem Ball” tour, much to the delight of her fans. The Grammy Award-winning artist revealed the news via social media on Wednesday, explaining that while she hadn’t planned to tour this year, the overwhelming response to her new album, MAYHEM, inspired her to keep the momentum going.
Album Success Leads to U.S. and Europe Tour Dates
Released on March 7, MAYHEM debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, making an immediate impact on the music industry. Gaga’s decision to hit the road follows the album’s commercial success, and fans will have the chance to hear the electrifying tracks live during her upcoming performances.
The “Mayhem Ball” tour will kick off in Las Vegas, Nevada, on July 16, with the second performance scheduled for July 18. Gaga will make a limited number of U.S. stops, including two dates in Seattle, Washington, on August 6 and 7, and a three-night stand at Madison Square Garden in New York City on August 22, 23, and 26.
In addition to her East Coast shows, the singer will perform in Miami, Florida, on August 31 and September 1, followed by two dates in Toronto, Ontario. After that, Gaga will head to Chicago, where she will perform on September 15 and 17 before crossing the Atlantic to perform in the United Kingdom and Europe.
The European leg of the tour will see Gaga performing in major cities like London, Barcelona, Berlin, and Paris. Fans in London will be treated to three nights of performances on September 29, 30, and October 2. The tour will then continue through Manchester, Stockholm, Milan, Barcelona, and Berlin before concluding in Paris, France, with three final performances on November 17, 18, and 20.
Tour Design and Venue Choices
In a recent statement, Lady Gaga explained the decision to perform in arenas rather than stadiums for the 2025 tour. She cited the desire to maintain greater control over the details of the performance, something that’s more challenging in larger stadium venues. “The show is designed to be the kind of theatrical and electrifying experience that brings MAYHEM to life exactly how I envision it,” Gaga said.
Presale tickets for the “Mayhem Ball” tour will be available starting Monday, with general public sales opening on April 3 at 10 a.m. through Ticketmaster. Fans who sign up for Ticketmaster’s Artist Sign-Up Window will have access to early tickets until Sunday at 8 a.m.
Full List of Tour Dates
July 16 – Las Vegas, NV
July 18 – Las Vegas, NV
August 6 – Seattle, WA
August 7 – Seattle, WA
August 22 – New York, NY
August 23 – New York, NY
August 26 – New York, NY
August 31 – Miami, FL
September 1 – Miami, FL
September 10 – Toronto, ON
September 11 – Toronto, ON
September 15 – Chicago, IL
September 17 – Chicago, IL
September 29 – London, UK
September 30 – London, UK
October 2 – London, UK
October 7 – Manchester, UK
October 12 – Stockholm, Sweden
October 13 – Stockholm, Sweden
October 19 – Milan, Italy
October 20 – Milan, Italy
October 28 – Barcelona, Spain
October 29 – Barcelona, Spain
November 4 – Berlin, Germany
November 5 – Berlin, Germany
November 9 – Amsterdam, Netherlands
November 11 – Antwerp, Belgium
November 13 – Lyon, France
November 14 – Lyon, France
November 17 – Paris, France
November 18 – Paris, France
November 20 – Paris, France
Fans are eagerly anticipating the “Mayhem Ball” tour, with Gaga promising a spectacular show packed with high-energy performances and theatrical moments. “See you soon, monsters,” she wrote on social media, leaving her fans excited for what’s to come.
Lady Gaga was honored with the Innovator Award at the iHeartRadio Music Awards on Monday night in a star-studded ceremony in Los Angeles. The pop icon, known for her groundbreaking music and boundary-pushing performances, was introduced by rapper Doechii, who shared a heartfelt tribute to Gaga’s impact on her life and career.
Doechii, a Grammy Award-winning artist, spoke about how Gaga’s influence helped her navigate her own identity growing up. “Growing up, I was nothing like most of the people I was around, and everything about me represented a community of alternative kids that were underrepresented in my environment,” Doechii said. “I was considered weird, but it’s OK, because things worked out. As a kid that identified as an artist, as queer, and as a Little Monster, Lady Gaga wasn’t just a pop star, she was a lifeline. Gaga taught us that it was OK to be our real selves, to try new things, to speak out, and to create.”
The rapper further highlighted Gaga’s evolution as an artist, noting her continuous reinvention over the past two decades. “Gaga was and always is new, fresh, and different. And not only is that OK, but it’s ideal. Over the last two decades, her music, her art has constantly evolved from dance floor anthems to pop rock to jazz standards. She has pushed boundaries, including her own, and made all of us feel like we belong,” Doechii said. “Lady Gaga is an innovator because she has to be. She was born that way, and we love her for it. Lady Gaga isn’t just a pop star, but she is your iHeartRadio innovator.”
When Gaga took the stage to accept the prestigious award, she expressed her gratitude to Doechii and the fans who have supported her throughout her career. “I think we can all agree that Doechii is an innovator already,” Gaga said, thanking the rapper for her touching words. “Thank you, Doechii. I’m really, deeply touched by your words.”
The 37-year-old singer, who released her seventh studio album Mayhem earlier this year, also reflected on the ongoing journey of her career. “Innovation isn’t about breaking rules, it’s about writing your own and convincing the world they were theirs all along,” she said.
During her acceptance speech, Gaga took a moment to express her appreciation for her loyal fanbase, affectionately known as her Little Monsters, and the LGBTQ+ community. “Thank you for always seeing me so clearly, from The Fame to Mayhem. Because you saw me, I learned to see myself,” she said. “And to the LGBTQ+ community, you taught me bravery before the world was ready to listen. You changed the world for the better and your courage fuels mine every single day.”
Gaga’s speech was a powerful reminder of the immense impact she has had on both the music industry and on her fans. From her rise to fame with The Fame in 2008 to her current musical evolution, she has continuously challenged expectations and redefined what it means to be an artist.
The Innovator Award is just the latest recognition in Gaga’s illustrious career, which spans multiple genres, including pop, jazz, and rock, and showcases her exceptional talent not only as a singer but also as an actress and advocate for social change. As she continues to evolve as both an artist and a public figure, Gaga’s influence shows no signs of waning.
In addition to her music career, Gaga remains a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and social justice, using her platform to speak out for marginalized communities and inspire others to embrace their true selves. As she continues to push boundaries and innovate in all aspects of her life, Lady Gaga’s legacy as a cultural trailblazer is firmly cemented.
Lady Gaga has consistently reshaped the pop landscape with each album, from the glitzy rise of The Fame to the emotional depth of Joanne and the sci-fi fantasy of Chromatica. Now, with her highly anticipated seventh studio album, Mayhem, the superstar turns the focus inward, reflecting on the shape of her own stardom and embracing her true artistry.
In an interview with Out, Gaga describes Mayhem as “a lot of gothic dreams,” a theme that has quietly resonated throughout her career. “I’ve realized that’s been a part of my music since early in my career,” she explains, suggesting that the album marks an exploration of her own evolution as both an artist and a person.
At 38, Gaga feels a renewed sense of confidence in her musical journey. “As a pop star, I want to be able to celebrate the parts of myself that I know will carry me forward,” she says, comfortably relaxing under a blanket with sunlight streaming in. She recalls advice from legendary jazz singer Tony Bennett, who urged her to focus on quality. “If the thing that I focus on for the rest of my career is my musicianship, that will be a way for me to move forward, and with confidence,” Gaga reflects.
Throughout her career, Gaga has cemented herself not only as a defining figure of pop culture but also as a multifaceted artist, admired for her musicianship and her willingness to push boundaries. “I’m not sure if people know that I’ve been producing all my albums my whole career. I’ve always been a co-producer and writer on my records. I just feel more comfortable talking about it now,” she reveals. “I’m also really proud of this music. I’m very proud of the production on this album.”
In a world dominated by social media feeds, trending topics, and viral moments, Gaga has long tackled the intersection of fame, artifice, and identity—issues she first delved into with ARTPOP in 2013. Yet, in 2025, as artists and brands navigate an increasingly polarized social landscape, Gaga continues to thrive. At the Grammy Awards, she earned a Grammy for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance with the hauntingly romantic track “Die With a Smile,” which closes out Mayhem. During her acceptance speech, Gaga used the opportunity to speak out on behalf of the trans community, reiterating her commitment to supporting marginalized voices.
That same night, Gaga made another bold statement by releasing her new song “Abracadabra” and its accompanying music video during an ad break in the Grammy telecast. For her queer fans, the excitement was palpable. “It means the absolute world to me,” Gaga says, visibly moved. “I can’t even begin to tell you how grateful I am, and what it means to be supported by a community that I respect so much. A community that is responsible for so much great art for thousands of years.”
Gaga’s continued support for the LGBTQ+ community is not just an underlying current in her music, but a defining element of her public persona. “It really means a lot,” she adds, “and I hope that I made something that the LGBTQ+ community felt was also indicative of the resilience that I see in queer people all the time.”
Though many would consider the support of allies to be a given, Gaga continues to make her commitment to the queer community front and center in her career. “I just want to say that I love you so much,” she tells Out. “And I thank you for your endless amounts of love, inspiration, and strength. Thank you for teaching the world how to be kind, and to love. And know that I’m going to have the back of the LGBTQ+ community every single day.”
Gaga pauses before continuing: “Actually, I think my message wouldn’t necessarily be to the queer community. It would be to everyone else: You can learn a lot from the queer community about love.”
As she embarks on this new era, Gaga continues to use her platform not only to create art but to advocate for love, inclusion, and strength—values that have always been at the core of her music and public persona. Mayhem is a reflection of her personal and artistic growth, blending the gothic with the glamorous as she shapes the next chapter of her career, staying true to the very parts of herself that have defined her journey.
Lady Gaga recently sat down for a revealing conversation with Zane Lowe on Apple Music 1, sharing insights into her upcoming album MAYHEM, her artistic journey, and her excitement to hit the road again. The interview, which took place in New York City’s Lower East Side, delved into her creative process, the evolution of her sound, and how her personal life and relationships have influenced her music.
In the interview, Gaga reflected on her development as an artist and the making of MAYHEM, an album she describes as a culmination of her darker, more introspective dreams. For those eager to hear more, the full conversation is available on demand with an Apple Music subscription. The interview touches on a variety of topics, from her creative vision for the album to her plans for upcoming performances.
MAYHEM: A Record of Artistic Freedom
Lady Gaga’s MAYHEM is not just another addition to her expansive discography—it’s a deeply personal project that represents a return to her roots as a musician. “Something I want my fans to know now, which is why I said I love being Lady Gaga, is I actually returned back to my artistry recently in a huge way of making this album,” Gaga explained. “I put so much of myself as a musician, as a producer, as a songwriter into everything. And that is who Lady Gaga is to me.”
Throughout the interview, Gaga emphasized her desire to be remembered not for gimmicks or image-driven moments, but for her artistry. “Maybe to someone else it might be the meat dress or something that they remember as me. But for me, I always want to be remembered for being a real artist and someone that cares so much about a life of art.”
No Label for the Sound of ‘MAYHEM’
One of the most intriguing aspects of MAYHEM is Gaga’s approach to its sound. While past albums like ARTPOP, Joanne, and Chromatica were defined by specific sonic directions, Gaga purposefully avoided categorizing the new album. “ARTPOP was a vibe. Joanne was a sound. Chromatica had a sound. All different,” she said. “But with MAYHEM, I made the effort to not do that and not try to give my music an outfit… I wanted to allow myself to be influenced by everything.”
Lady Gaga and Zane Lowe. Photo: The Zane Lowe Show on Apple Music 1.
This freedom allowed Gaga to explore a variety of genres and styles, from electro grunge to industrial sounds, creating a diverse collection of tracks. “Some of that influence [from electro grunge] made it onto other songs… like Garden of Eden or ‘Can’t Stop the High,’” she added. The latter, a song only available on the album’s special edition on her website, is an intense electro grunge track that pushes the boundaries even further than some of her previous work.
A Glimpse into the Creative Process
When asked how many songs were written for MAYHEM, Gaga revealed that the process was expansive and intense. “I mean, probably 50. So much music, and we didn’t use it all, but it’s my favorite record in a long time. I feel like it has some teeth,” she said. The depth of her creativity during this period clearly stands out as one of the most prolific phases of her career, resulting in an album that showcases her versatility as both a songwriter and a producer.
Embracing Boring: A New Chapter of Stability
Despite her ongoing journey of artistic exploration, Gaga acknowledged that her life is now more grounded. “After my career took off, I didn’t have a sense of home in the same way… I just was away, and I was kind of untethered,” she explained. However, she expressed gratitude for finding stability and comfort in her personal life. “Now I have gravity, and gravity’s good. And sometimes I joke now and I just will say, ‘I’m boring now, and thank God.’”
This sense of groundedness, she shared, has provided her with a new creative freedom. MAYHEM reflects these inner shifts, representing her ability to channel her dreams and darker fantasies into music. “It’s all in one place, and it’s total mayhem, and it’s completely me, and it’s my gift to my fans,” she added.
The Philosophy Behind ARTPOP*
Looking back at her 2013 album ARTPOP, Gaga described the record as more than just a collection of songs—it was a concept and philosophy that broke new ground in the music industry. “ARTPOP was a very special album to me,” she reflected. “It was not easy listening. It was basically like me going, ‘I’ll do what I want. I’ll do it my way.’”
The album’s unconventional approach to music was part of her artistic statement, a departure from mainstream norms. “It was more of a concept and a philosophy more than it was an aesthetic,” she explained. ARTPOP was all about challenging expectations and embracing artistic freedom, a sentiment that remains central to Gaga’s creative ethos.
Love, Life, and Inspiration Behind New Music
Gaga also spoke candidly about how her relationship with fiancé Michael Polansky has had a profound impact on her music. “I just got much healthier… I have good people in my life. I fell in love with Michael,” she shared. “As a songwriter, you need life to inspire your writing… I needed to go live life to have a full life.”
This new chapter of stability has provided Gaga with a wealth of inspiration, leading to the creation of songs like “Blade of Grass.” Inspired by a simple, intimate moment with Polansky, the song captures the purity of their connection. “I remembered the way his face looked and I remembered the grass in the backyard,” Gaga said. “Those moments, to me, are the essence of life and art.”
Touring and the Excitement of Returning to the Stage
With MAYHEM ready for release, Gaga is eager to return to the stage. “I love being on stage and I enjoy it again at this time in my life,” she said, expressing her excitement about her upcoming performance at Coachella. “I’m firing on all my cylinders again, and it’s super rad. I can’t wait to see my fans, and I also can’t wait to do it with Michael.”
For Gaga, performing has become a more fulfilling experience since finding love and stability. “It is so much more fun to take somebody up there with you, someone that loves you, that knows what you’re capable of in all the various aspects of life,” she said. “Mattering to somebody just for being me, like a girl, that means a lot.”
As her fans eagerly await MAYHEM and her upcoming performances, Lady Gaga is embracing both her artistic and personal growth. With her new album, she is poised to deliver another boundary-pushing chapter in her already illustrious career, while also finding fulfillment in the quieter, more intimate aspects of her life.
Listen to the full episode of Lady Gaga’s interview on Apple Music 1, available on demand with an Apple Music subscription.
Lady Gaga is bringing Mayhem to Rio de Janeiro this May with a highly anticipated free concert on the iconic Copacabana Beach. Set for May 3, 2025, the concert will be open to the public on a first-come, first-serve basis and promises to be a monumental event in the singer’s career.
The concert will also be broadcast live on Multishow and TV Globo starting at 9 p.m. BRT. Fans who can’t attend in person will still be able to experience the excitement of the performance from the comfort of their homes.
“It’s a great honor to be asked to sing for Rio. For my whole career, the fans in Brazil have been part of the lifeblood of the little monsters,” Gaga shared in a post on X. “I’ve been dying to come perform for you for years and was heartbroken when I had to cancel years ago because I was hospitalized.”
It’s a great honor to be asked to sing for Rio–for my whole career the fans in Brazil have been part of the lifeblood of the little monsters. I’ve been dying to come perform for you for years and was heartbroken when I had to cancel years ago because I was hospitalized. Your… pic.twitter.com/uPVxJvb8dh
The pop star’s last visit to Brazil was in 2012, and she was scheduled to perform in Rio in 2017, but had to cancel the show due to being hospitalized. Expressing gratitude for the fans’ support during that time, she added, “Your understanding that I needed that time to heal meant the world to me. I am now coming back and I feel better than ever and am working so hard to make sure this show is one you will never forget.”
This performance will be part of Todo Mundo no Rio, a new initiative aimed at showcasing Rio de Janeiro’s entertainment scene. Gaga’s return to the city will be an unforgettable celebration of music and culture for her devoted Brazilian fans.
The Mayhem on the Beach concert comes as Lady Gaga prepares to release her new studio album, Mayhem, scheduled for release on March 7, 2025. The album will feature hit singles “Die With a Smile,” “Disease,” and “Abracadabra.” With a mix of high-energy pop and boundary-pushing artistry, the album is expected to be another landmark release for the Grammy-winning artist.
The beach concert follows in the footsteps of another iconic music event in Rio, when Madonna performed a free concert on Copacabana Beach in 2023. That show, which marked the finale of her The Celebration Tour, drew an estimated 1.6 million attendees, making it the largest concert of Madonna’s career.
Lady Gaga’s Mayhem on the Beach concert promises to be a major highlight of the year, adding to her already legendary list of performances. As the date approaches, excitement is building for what is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime event for fans in Brazil and around the world.
