Lady Gaga returned to the Coachella music festival stage on April 11, 2025, delivering a headlining performance that was both a visual feast and an emotional journey. This marked her second time headlining the festival, the first being in 2017 when she stepped in for Beyoncé. This time, Gaga had full creative control, and she used it to craft a show that was as elaborate as it was heartfelt. #GAGACHELLA
The nearly two-hour set was divided into five thematic acts, each with its own distinct aesthetic and narrative. She opened with “Bloody Mary,” performing in a red dress against a baroque backdrop adorned with gargoyles and angels. The performance featured a giant chessboard during “Poker Face,” where dancers acted as chess pieces, culminating in Gaga declaring “Off with her head” upon defeating the white queen piece. The stage transformed into a green-hued “Garden of Eden” for the song of the same name, and “Shallow” was performed at the exact location where it was filmed for A Star is Born. The show concluded with “Bad Romance,” where Gaga was theatrically resurrected by dancers in plague doctor costumes.
Gaga’s setlist was a blend of classic hits and new material from her recently released album Mayhem. Tracks like “Abracadabra,” “Killah,” and “Disease” were interspersed with fan favourites such as “Just Dance” and “Born This Way.” Her performance of “11:59” was timed precisely at 11:59 PM during the act titled “The Beast,” showcasing her attention to detail and theatrical flair.
Beyond the spectacle, Gaga’s performance was deeply personal. She dedicated songs to her fiancé, Michael Polansky, and paid homage to her late friend Rick Genest, known as “Zombie Boy,” during the performance of “Zombieboy.” Her vocals remained powerful throughout, whether she was behind the piano, wielding an electric guitar, or executing intricate choreography.
Fans and critics alike were captivated. One attendee likened the experience to “being there when the pyramids of Giza were built,” highlighting the monumental effort and artistry involved. Gaga’s Coachella 2025 performance was not just a concert; it was a masterclass in blending music, theatre, and personal storytelling, solidifying her status as a transformative figure in pop culture
