Lady Gaga, the Grammy-winning pop sensation known for her unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community, used her Las Vegas Residency at Dolby Live at Park MGM to send a powerful message of solidarity to the transgender community.
Gaga’s Jazz & Piano show, which made its triumphant return after a hiatus since May 2022, became a platform for the artist to address the pressing issue of trans rights in the United States. The star passionately dedicated her 2011 queer anthem “Born This Way” to trans individuals, shedding light on the importance of her platform in advocating for change.
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With a resolute tone, Gaga stated, “I’ve got something to say about trans rights in this country. You got something to say, you’ve got to speak up, alright?” She turned her hit song into a moving piano ballad, showcasing her extraordinary vocal prowess and emotional depth.
Seated at the piano in a stunning floor-length pink gown, Gaga sang the lyrics that have inspired countless individuals on their journey to self-acceptance. During the performance, she paused to emphasize the importance of listening to the real-life stories of transgender individuals, encouraging empathy and understanding.
The performance comes at a critical time when numerous U.S. states have enacted anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, with a focus on transgender youth and gender-affirming care. Gaga’s dedication was a poignant reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and acceptance.
Notably, Gaga’s heartfelt tribute aligns with her longstanding advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community. She has consistently used her platform to promote love, acceptance, and equal rights for all. Her dedication to trans rights is a testament to her unwavering commitment to inclusivity and social progress.
Lady Gaga’s Las Vegas Residency, which initially began in 2019 and alternated with her pop-focused Enigma show, resumed after her filming commitments in May 2022. The residency, featuring jazz classics and stripped-down versions of her hits, will continue until October 5, 2023.
During her performance, Gaga also took a moment to honor her late collaborator, Tony Bennett, who passed away at the age of 96 in July after battling Alzheimer’s. She dedicated the song “Fly Me to the Moon” to Tony’s widow, Susan Benedetto, in the audience, celebrating his enduring legacy and their cherished partnership.
Lady Gaga’s music and advocacy continue to resonate, reminding us all of the power of art and activism to inspire positive change and acceptance in the world.