by Lady Gaga is one of the most successful and influential pop stars of the 21st century. But even with all of her fame and accolades, she still looks to one of the greatest rock bands of all time for inspiration – Queen. Gaga has frequently cited Queen and its late legendary frontman Freddie Mercury as major influences on her music and performance style. She has even gone so far as to call herself a “Queen kid” and say that their music “speaks to my soul.” Let’s take a look at why Queen has had such a profound impact on Mother Monster.
Gaga’s Vocal Style Modeled After Freddie
One of the most obvious similarities between Gaga and Mercury is in their powerful vocals. Both singers have incredible range and ability to belt out notes. They can go from a soft croon to an aggressive growl seamlessly. Gaga has specifically mentioned emulating Mercury’s vocal style, using her extensive Broadway training to try and match his technical prowess. She also shares Mercury’s penchant for adding operatic flair, seen in songs like “Paparazzi.” Of course, Gaga puts her own spin on things with her house/pop fusion, but it’s clear she strives for Freddie-level vocals.
Theatrical Performances Inspired by Queen
Beyond just singing, Gaga’s entire performance ethos is modeled after Queen and Mercury. The band pioneered what it meant to put on a rock spectacle, making sure the visuals matched the sound. Gaga follows in that legacy with elaborate costumes, sets, and persona creation. She sees herself as playing a character, much like Mercury’s on-stage persona. Gaga takes theatrics to new levels even by Queen standards, but it’s coming from the same impulse to make pop music feel larger-than-life. She also channels the band’s penchant for audience interaction and call-and-response. Sing-alongs are a must at a Gaga show, just like they were at a Queen concert.
Glam Aesthetic a Tribute to Freddie
Gaga’s over-the-top fashion sense also shows Mercury’s influence. He pioneered the glam or glitter rock look in the 70s, combining classic rock music with metallic fabrics, bright colors, and makeup. Gaga carries the torch of glam with her own unique take – think the infamous meat dress. She also frequently dons face makeup looks reminiscent of how Mercury wore eyeliner and gloss. Gaga’s entire pop persona is built on pushing boundaries through appearance, just as her idol did decades before. Even the name “Lady Gaga” resembles Mercury’s mix of feminine and edgy qualities.
Cover Songs Show Deep Appreciation
Gaga has gone beyond just being inspired by Queen and has recorded several cover versions of their songs. Most notably, she took on “Radio Ga Ga” at a 2011 MTV Video Music Awards tribute performance. She wore outrageous costumes inspired by Queen album art and poured her heart into the rendition. Gaga also recorded a country-pop version of “You and I” that featured portions of “We Will Rock You.” The fact that she integrates Queen melodies and lyrics into her own songs shows how deeply their music resonates with her. She wants to share that feeling with fans old and new.
Outsider Anthems Empower the Misunderstood
There’s a reason Gaga responds so strongly to Queen’s lyrical themes – she connects to the outsider empowerment. Songs like “We Are the Champions” and “We Will Rock You” became anthems for misfits, and Gaga wants to keep that feeling going. She crafts her own lyrics in that vein, spreading a message of self-love and acceptance. Records like “Born This Way” are spiritual successors to Queen’s mantras of individualism. Gaga is proud to carry on Mercury’s legacy as a champion for the outcast and misunderstood.
Boldness to Be Yourself Above All
Both Mercury and Gaga stand for the uncompromising belief that you should be yourself – critics be damned. Mercury refused to hide his sexuality and larger-than-life personality, even when it cost radio play. Likewise, Gaga forges her own path regardless of what people may say. She dresses how she wants, creates the music she feels, and fully embraces the fringe. Gaga admires that Mercury never compromised or bowed to convention. He gave her the inspiration to take that same road less traveled.
In the end, Lady Gaga and Queen just make sense. The driving beats, lush harmonies, and awe-inspiring vocals speak to the same primal place. Gaga is keeping Mercury’s spirit alive, introducing him to younger generations. She pays tribute by putting her own audacious spin on the formula Mercury pioneered. The theatrics may look different, but Gaga’s shock tactics come from the same school of thought. Whenever she takes the stage, Mercury’s DNA is part of her. Queen forever lives on through the “Queen kid” Lady Gaga.
