Lady Gaga Headlines Coachella 2025: A Night of Art and Chaos
A Triumphant Return
Lady Gaga graced the stage as the Friday headliner at the 2025 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, marking her first performance at the event since her iconic debut in 2017. That memorable appearance saw her stepping in for a then-pregnant Beyoncé, and this year, she returned with a dazzling spectacle that showcased her evolution as an artist.
The Art of Personal Chaos
Billed as “The Art of Personal Chaos,” Gaga’s set was divided into four distinct acts, each with its unique theme:
- Of Velvet and Vice
- And She Fell Into a Gothic Dream
- The Beautiful Nightmare That Knows Her Name
- To Wake Her Is to Lose Her
The performance culminated in a spectacular finale that left the audience in awe. She opened with a breathtaking a cappella rendition of “Bloody Mary” from her acclaimed album, Born This Way, perched atop a sprawling, multi-story gown. As she transitioned into her hit single “Abracadabra,” dancers emerged dramatically from her costume, setting the tone for an exhilarating night.
Dynamic Performances and Iconic References
Gaga’s versatility was on full display as she picked up a guitar for “Garden of Eden,” engaging the crowd with a lively dance battle to a Gesaffelstein remix of “Abracadabra,” which has since been made available on streaming platforms. The energy escalated when she invited Gesaffelstein to join her for a powerful rendition of “Killah,” followed by a visually striking performance of “Zombieboy,” which made its live debut that night.
Homages to Iconic Looks
The production featured numerous nods to Gaga’s past, including a stunning white version of her iconic Alexander McQueen dress from the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards and a recreation of her leg brace armor from the “Paparazzi” music video. Her setlist primarily focused on tracks from her new album and earlier hits from The Fame to Born This Way, intentionally excluding songs from Artpop, Joanne, and Chromatica.
Closing the Night with a Bang
As the night drew to a close, Gaga delivered an unforgettable finale with a mix of emotional and fan-favorite songs, including “Vanish Into You,” “Shallow” from A Star Is Born, and the ever-popular “Bad Romance.” The energy in the crowd was palpable as her powerful vocals resonated throughout the festival grounds.
A Stellar Year for Lady Gaga
The Coachella performance caps off an impressive year for Lady Gaga, who kicked off 2025 with a Grammy Awards appearance alongside Bruno Mars, where they won the Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for their collaboration “Die With a Smile.” Following this achievement, she wowed audiences with a Super Bowl performance of her song “Hold My Hand” from Top Gun: Maverick, and further engaged fans by hosting and performing on Saturday Night Live.
New Music and Visuals
Gaga’s latest album, Mayhem, features singles like “Disease” and “Abracadabra,” both of which were accompanied by visually stunning music videos that highlight her fashion-forward aesthetic and artistic vision.
Conclusion
Lady Gaga’s return to Coachella in 2025 not only reaffirmed her status as a powerhouse performer but also showcased her artistic growth and creativity. With a captivating set that intertwined theatricality, homage, and immersive storytelling, Gaga continues to push the boundaries of performance art, solidifying her legacy in the music industry.
FAQs
When did Lady Gaga first perform at Coachella?
Lady Gaga first performed at Coachella in 2017, where she replaced Beyoncé as a headliner.
What was the theme of Lady Gaga’s 2025 Coachella performance?
The theme of her performance was titled “The Art of Personal Chaos,” featuring four acts that explored different narratives.
What songs did Lady Gaga perform at Coachella 2025?
Gaga’s setlist included songs from her new album Mayhem, as well as hits from The Fame through Born This Way, concluding with “Vanish Into You,” “Shallow,” and “Bad Romance.”
What awards did Lady Gaga win at the Grammy Awards in 2025?
Lady Gaga won the Best Pop Duo/Group Performance award alongside Bruno Mars for their duet “Die With a Smile.”
What singles has Lady Gaga released from her album Mayhem?
Lady Gaga has released singles “Disease” and “Abracadabra” from her album Mayhem, both accompanied by fashionable music videos.
