Get ready to scream “Culture!” from the rooftops. The Las Culturistas Culture Awards, hosted by podcast royalty Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers, are headed to television for the first time—airing Tuesday, Aug. 5 on Bravo and streaming the next day on Peacock.
A Cultural Phenomenon Takes the Stage
Originally born from their beloved podcast Las Culturistas, Yang and Rogers’ awards show has become a celebration of pop culture’s most iconic, bizarre, and unforgettable moments. The show, now in its fourth year, isn’t just a niche fan favorite—it’s a full-blown cultural event.
Taped live in Los Angeles on July 17 and produced by Lionsgate Alternative Television, the 2025 ceremony promises over 100 gloriously absurd and oddly specific categories, live musical performances, and a star-studded lineup of presenters and guests. A full list of this year’s categories is still under wraps—but fans can expect the same witty chaos that’s made the podcast a cult hit since its 2016 debut.
In a joint statement, Rogers and Yang poked fun at the lofty definition of culture while perfectly capturing the show’s self-aware spirit:
“The word ‘culture’ is defined as ‘the arts and other manifestations of human intellectual achievement regarded collectively,’” they said. “We are so thrilled to eliminate that whole ‘intellectual’ part entirely with the LCCAs airing on Bravo and Peacock this August… Because while what the world needs now might be love sweet love, it also needs to see an Oscar-winning actress and a Real Housewife come together to present a very heavy award to Oprah, if we can book her. Oprah, u up?!”
From Podcast to Pop Culture Powerhouse
Las Culturistas, known for its hilarious and high-low takes on everything from Tony Awards to TikTok trends, has featured guests like Mariah Carey, Lady Gaga, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Ariana Grande. With its rapid-fire segments, unfiltered opinions, and endless quotables, the podcast has redefined how queer voices celebrate pop culture—and now it’s bringing that chaotic joy to a wider TV audience.
NBCUniversal’s EVP of live events and specials, Jen Neal, called the awards show “vibrant and whimsical,” adding, “Matt and Bowen’s undeniable chemistry, playful humor and love of pop culture’s big and small moments have shaped this spirited award show, redefining what it means to celebrate culture.”
The Las Culturistas Culture Awards will air on Bravo on Tuesday, Aug. 5, and stream on Peacock the following day.
Lady Gaga’s headlining performance at Coachella 2025 was a masterclass in theatrical spectacle, musical prowess, and emotional depth.Taking the stage on the opening night of the festival, Gaga delivered a 110-minute set that seamlessly blended her extensive catalog with new material from her latest album, Mayhem.The performance was not just a concert but a narrative journey, structured into five distinct acts, each exploring different facets of her artistic identity.
A Theatrical Odyssey
The show commenced with a spoken word piece titled “The Manifesto of Mayhem,” setting the tone for the evening’s exploration of chaos and rebirth.Each act was introduced with title cards, such as “Of Velvet and Vice” and “The Beautiful Nightmare That Knows Her Name,” guiding the audience through a visual and auditory odyssey.Gaga’s costume changes were as dramatic as the music itself, ranging from gothic ensembles to avant-garde creations, each symbolizing different themes of the performance.
One of the most striking visuals occurred during “Poker Face,” where the stage was transformed into a life-sized chessboard.Aerial shots captured the intricate choreography from above, reminiscent of Busby Berkeley’s cinematic style.The performance featured a stylized battle between two opposing groups, one led by Gaga and the other by a veiled figure dressed in white.The routine concluded with Gaga emerging victorious, prompting the audience to chant “Off with Her Head” toward the defeated figure.
The narrative continued with Gaga symbolically confronting and overcoming her past selves.In a dramatic sequence, she was ‘executed’ on stage, only to be ‘resurrected’ by dancers in plague doctor costumes, paying homage to her earlier work while signaling her evolution as an artist.
Musical Highlights
Musically, the setlist was a dynamic blend of Gaga’s greatest hits and new tracks from Mayhem.Songs like “Bad Romance,” “Born This Way,” and “Paparazzi” were reimagined with fresh arrangements, showcasing her vocal range and ability to reinterpret her own work.New songs such as “Garden of Eden” and “Zombieboy” were performed live for the first time, receiving enthusiastic responses from the audience.A notable collaboration occurred during “Killah,” where French DJ Gesaffelstein joined Gaga on stage, adding an electronic edge to the performance.
The emotional core of the show was evident in the stripped-down rendition of “Die With a Smile,” performed at a skull-adorned piano.Gaga’s heartfelt delivery resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting her ability to connect on a personal level through her music.
Visual and Production Mastery
The production design was nothing short of spectacular.The massive set featured intricate ramps that extended into the audience, creating an immersive experience.These ramps allowed Gaga and her dancers to traverse the space dynamically, enhancing the theatricality of the performance.The backdrop, described as an “opera house in the desert,” was a testament to the show’s grandeur and ambition.Gaga’s statement, “I wanted to make a romantic gesture to you… I decided to build you an opera house in the desert,” encapsulated the show’s ethos of blending high art with pop culture.
Emotional Resonance
As the performance neared its conclusion, Gaga took a moment to address the audience directly.Expressing gratitude and reflecting on the shared experience, she said, “It’s fucking beautiful out here. I always feel so blessed to be with the audience because you always teach me something profound. The truth is, we’re all one. It’s just all one fucking thing.”This candid expression of connection underscored the show’s emotional depth and Gaga’s genuine appreciation for her fans.
A Defining Moment
Lady Gaga’s Coachella 2025 performance was a defining moment in her career, showcasing her evolution as an artist and her commitment to pushing the boundaries of live performance.By blending music, theater, and visual art, she created an experience that was both entertaining and thought-provoking.The show not only highlighted her vocal and performance skills but also her ability to craft a cohesive narrative that resonated with the audience on multiple levels.
As the festival continues, Gaga’s set stands out as a testament to the power of live performance and the enduring impact of her artistry.For fans and critics alike, it was a night to remember, reaffirming Lady Gaga’s status as one of the most innovative and influential performers of her generation.
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 is reflecting on a special moment from the 2025 Grammy Awards when she met up-and-coming queer artist Chappell Roan and shared an encouraging message of support. On the cusp of headlining Coachella and preparing for her Mayhem Ball tour, Gaga continues to use her platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and give a voice to marginalized communities.
In an interview with Out, Gaga shared her experience meeting Roan, the “Pink Pony Club” singer, at the Grammy ceremony. Gaga described the interaction as both emotional and empowering, noting how important it was to connect with artists who are making waves in the LGBTQ+ community.
“It was amazing, and I think that it’s such a gift to the world,” Gaga said. “These artists are tremendous. Their messages are so important. Their music is amazing. And what they stand for, what they mean to so many people.”
During their brief encounter, Gaga made sure to take a moment to praise Roan for her impact, telling her, “You inspire so many people.” Gaga reflected on how inspiring it was to witness the representation of queer women in music at the 2025 Grammy Awards, calling it the “most fun” she’s ever had at the event.
A Powerful Grammy Moment
Later in the evening, Gaga added even more to the queer conversation when she won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for her hit song “Die With a Smile,” alongside Bruno Mars. During her acceptance speech, she used the moment to speak up for the trans community, calling attention to the rising violence and discrimination against trans individuals.
“In my career, there’s only been a handful of times that I’ve been on stage to be able to have the attention of the world for 45 seconds,” Gaga explained. “I wanted to say something that is important — and it’s certainly important to me, but it’s even more important for the world to listen.”
She continued, saying, “What trans people are facing right now is a terrible violence against their lives. I want to be a member of the community that’s supportive and loving, and that’s why I said what I said.”
The Mayhem Era Continues
Gaga is keeping the momentum going with her Mayhem era, which kicked off with her headlining performance at Coachella. As she gears up for her Mayhem Ball tour in July, fans are excited to see how Gaga will continue to blend her advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights with her powerful performances.
Meanwhile, Chappell Roan, who recently dropped her track “The Giver,” is also making waves as she works on her upcoming sophomore album.
Lady Gaga’s latest album, Mayhem, is available on all streaming platforms. For tickets and more information on her upcoming performances, including her headlining shows at Coachella, fans can visit the official festival website.
Doechii, the rising star known for her hit “Nissan Altima” and recent album Alligator Bites Never Heal, made waves at the 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards, where she was honored with the Outstanding Music Artist award. The recognition celebrates musicians who are either openly queer or allies and have used their music to increase acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community.
The moment was electric when country music star Maren Morris and chart-topping rapper Lil Nas X presented Doechii with the prestigious award. The Tampa native’s excitement was palpable as she began spitting lyrics from her hit song “Nissan Altima,” causing an eruption of cheers from the audience.
Doechii Reflects on Career and Legacy in Acceptance Speech
In her acceptance speech, Doechii expressed immense gratitude for the honor, acknowledging the significance of being recognized by an organization that celebrates LGBTQ+ advocacy. “I am thrilled at being recognized with such a prestigious award by GLAAD and to be joining prior honorees such as Renee Rapp, Lady Gaga, Lil Nas X, Sam Smith, and Janelle Monáe,” Doechii said, her voice filled with emotion.
The artist, whose music blends bold storytelling with powerful beats, also took a moment to reflect on the importance of inclusivity and empowerment. She highlighted the current climate of cultural change and how hard-won rights for transgender individuals and the LGBTQ+ community are being threatened. “This organization was founded on the principles of acceptance, inclusiveness, and empowerment. Those are the same tenets I strongly believe in, advocate for, and that continue to propel me forward,” Doechii added.
She used her platform to send a message of resilience to the LGBTQ+ community, stating, “But we are here, and we are not going anywhere. The support and love I’m feeling as I accept this award from GLAAD is overwhelming, uplifting, and—as I move forward in my life and career—enabling.”
A Beacon for Aspiring Artists
Doechii’s message to the next generation of LGBTQ+ artists was clear and inspiring. “It’s also a beacon to other aspiring artists to not let anyone ever block your dreams. Stay connected with each other. Stay passionate. Stay unapologetic,” she said, reinforcing the idea that the music industry can be a space for authenticity and self-expression.
Doechii accepting the Outstanding Music Artist Honor at the 36th GLAAD Media Awards. Photo: Getty images
Her win comes as a testament to her impact not only on the music world but also in the ongoing fight for visibility and representation within the queer community. Her presence in the mainstream as an openly queer artist serves as an inspiration to both fans and fellow musicians alike.
Celebrating Queer Icons and Trailblazers
Doechii’s victory is part of a broader recognition of LGBTQ+ contributions in the arts at the 36th Annual GLAAD Media Awards. This year’s ceremony, which also included performances by artists like Tanner Adell and Jake Wesley Rogers, brought together a diverse range of nominees who have made significant strides in representing queer stories and voices.
With her fabulous win, Doechii joins a legacy of LGBTQ+ artists who have shaped the cultural landscape, reinforcing GLAAD’s ongoing mission to advocate for fairness, acceptance, and visibility for the community.
As she moves forward in her career, Doechii remains committed to creating music that not only resonates with her audience but also uplifts marginalized voices. Her win at the GLAAD Media Awards cements her place in history as an artist and advocate, amplifying the power of music as a tool for change.
Streaming Details
The 36th GLAAD Media Awards will stream exclusively on Hulu starting April 12, giving fans the chance to relive the celebration of LGBTQ+ achievement and excellence in media.
For a complete list of winners and nominees, visit the official GLAAD website.
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 sparked a whirlwind of excitement in the LGBTQ+ community last week with the release of her highly anticipated seventh album, Mayhem. However, during a recent interview with Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers on their popular podcast Las Culturistas, the pop icon had an unexpected emotional moment that revealed her true feelings about the intense attention surrounding her.
The interview took a dramatic turn toward the end when Gaga was asked to participate in the podcast’s signature game, “I Don’t Think So Honey,” where guests have 60 seconds to rant about something in pop culture. But Gaga wasn’t quite prepared for the pressure of ranting on command.
“Basically, I don’t think so, honey, that you guys are putting me on the spot to do this,” she began, expressing her discomfort. “I hate ranting. I hate confronting people, I feel super uncomfortable.”
As the hosts laughed, trying to get her to engage in the game, Gaga opened up about her desire to avoid confrontation altogether. “I would love to just, like, go on stage and sing and change my outfits and pick my wigs and write songs and make albums and go on tours. But I do not want to rant about anything.”
With the clock ticking down and the pressure mounting, Gaga became visibly emotional, admitting that being put on the spot was overwhelming. “I’m not just gonna do whatever you say, whenever you ask me to do it,” she said, clearly frustrated. “When you tell me to do things, it makes me wanna cry! It makes me insane!”
Yang, realizing the moment had taken an emotional turn, quickly responded, “We shouldn’t have done this,” leading to a lighthearted end to the segment.
While the game didn’t go as planned, there was no hard feelings between Gaga and the Las Culturistas hosts. In a more vulnerable moment, Yang shared how Gaga’s anthem “Born This Way” helped him come to terms with his own identity during his college years, cementing the powerful bond between the singer and her LGBTQ+ fans.
In another humorous moment from the interview, Yang stumbled over his words while discussing Gaga’s incredible talents, inadvertently calling her a “b*tch.” After quickly apologizing, Gaga, ever the professional, responded with her signature coolness: “Don’t apologize. Thank you!”
Lady Gaga thanks Bowen Yang and tells him not to apologize after he jokingly called her “a bitch”.
Gaga also reflected on her long-time relationship with the LGBTQ+ community, recalling her high school years when she found her first gay friends. “I went to an all-girls school, which means that when school was over, I used to walk eight blocks away to the boys’ school,” she shared. “They weren’t out yet, but we were friends, and we would do the musicals together, and I found my people.”
As Gaga’s career progressed, she grew even more connected to the LGBTQ+ community. “I was like, ‘Oh, this is the community that loved me when I was a child, and this is the community that I’m meant to be a part of now,’” she said, underscoring the deep, symbiotic relationship that has been central to her success.
Gaga also teased some behind-the-scenes moments from the making of Mayhem, including a song she almost didn’t include on the album, and spoke about the future of her music and life with her fiancé.
Fans can watch the full interview on Las Culturistas, where Gaga opens up about her experiences, her journey with her LGBTQ+ fanbase, and her emotional responses to the overwhelming demands of fame.
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.
