Lady Gaga discusses the rock artists who influenced her latest album
Lady Gaga will be releasing her eagerly awaited seventh studio album, “Mayhem,” on March 7, and the iconic pop star has opened up about the myriad rock artists who inspired her during the creation of this LP. Gaga has been actively discussing the influence of rock music on “Mayhem” through various interviews and media engagements. During these conversations, she specifically mentioned the impact of Nine Inch Nails’ timeless classic, “Closer,” on the album. Moreover, in a recent interaction with Zane Lowe, Gaga delved into how one track, “Perfect Celebrity,” was shaped by an “electro grunge” sound, drawing inspiration from The Cure’s “Never Enough.”
In a prior interview with Elle Magazine, Lady Gaga provided additional insight into the genesis of “Mayhem.” She shared, “There was industrial inspiration with a lot of the sounds. There’s a transitional moment on the album that’s rooted in nineties music. A sort of electro grunge defiance. That era in music which was a response to the music that came before it. And then David Bowie theatrical rock, Prince, Radiohead. I was inspired by so much music that has grown roots in my veins.”
Beyond her musical ventures, Lady Gaga reflected on a unique experience with rock music during a festive episode of Carpool Karaoke in December 2024. She recounted a memorable moment from her past when she appeared as an extra in AC/DC’s 2000 music video for “Stiff Upper Lip.” While cruising through Los Angeles with Zane Lowe, Gaga shared a heartwarming video of her grandmother cheerfully singing “Highway to Hell.” The excitement escalated when Lowe surprised Gaga by introducing her to Brian Johnson, the lead vocalist of AC/DC. A joyful Gaga exclaimed, “Oh, my God! You brought me Brian Johnson?!” This encounter eventually led to a spirited sing-along to “Highway to Hell,” creating a truly unforgettable moment.
During this impromptu sing-along session, Gaga reminisced with Johnson about her days as an extra in the “Stiff Upper Lip” music video when she was only 17 years old. Johnson was visibly taken aback by this revelation, showcasing the surprising connections that can exist within the music industry. This unique experience not only illustrates Lady Gaga’s deep-rooted appreciation for rock music but also highlights the interwoven relationships and shared moments that transcend time and fame.
Lady Gaga’s passion for music, particularly the rock genre, shines through her creative process and personal anecdotes, serving as a testament to the enduring influence of iconic artists and the transformative power of musical expression. As fans eagerly anticipate the release of “Mayhem,” Lady Gaga’s rock-inspired album promises to captivate audiences with its blend of raw energy and artistic ingenuity, embodying the timeless spirit of rock music through a modern lens.