Lady Gaga headlined Coachella, delivering a powerful performance tied to her latest album, MAYHEM. The California festival drew massive crowds eager to see her artistry.
This marked Gaga’s second time headlining Coachella. She first performed in 2017, stepping in for a pregnant Beyoncé.
Her setlist featured MAYHEM tracks like “Bloody Mary” and “Abracadabra,” alongside classics like “Judas.” The stage, adorned with gargoyles and angels, sparked controversy.
Some viewers labeled the performance a “Satanic ritual” due to its dark imagery. Gaga’s bold red outfit amplified these claims.
Savannah Rae, a viewer, posted, “When did it become cool to be so satanic on such a huge platform? It’s so dark and so not okay!”
Despite criticism, Gaga’s performance told a complex, dark story. Her artistry shone through intricate details.
According to Her Campus, the “Judas” performance coincided with Good Friday, echoing its 2011 release. This timing fueled debates over religious themes.
TikToker @thneedgirl said, “I need everybody to understand they’re witnessing history, that’s culture!” Gaga’s clever timing added depth to her set.
In “The Beast,” Gaga sang the lyric “11:59” exactly at 11:59 p.m. A fan commented, “There were awkward pauses. She timed it perfectly.”
“Poker Face” featured a chessboard stage with Gaga battling a dancer representing her past. She shouted, “Off with her head!” after winning.
Gaga’s use of a cane in “Poker Face” referenced disability, a recurring theme in her work. This added layers to her narrative.
In “Zombieboy,” Gaga danced with skeleton-clad dancers. Her coat’s skeletal design tied into the macabre aesthetic.
The performance was a testament to Gaga’s fearless creativity. She blended religion, disability, and dark themes seamlessly.
Fans hope Gaga brings this energy to her MAYHEM Ball in Miami. Her Coachella set solidified her as a visionary artist.
