Thank you to everyone on Reddit for your amazing questions, the laughs, and interesting insight. I appreciate your passion. Have a beautiful, peaceful day. And monsters. ROCK-ON, or JAZZ-ON... :) - gagaloo

Don't forget to pick up your copy of "Cheek To Cheek" My jazz album with the legendary Mr. Tony Bennett!

I'm an Italian-American from New York City. Born a musician, classical pianist, music lover, and jazz singer since I was 13, I'm here to talk about my many life experiences and connect as much as possible with new fans and Little Monsters.

My latest album is a collaboration with Tony Bennett, Cheek To Cheek. You can get it on iTunes here.

Victoria is helping me get started today. AMAA.

http://imgur.com/l9XogZr

https://twitter.com/reddit_AMA/status/518041877229338625

Comments: 7405 • Responses: 24  • Date: 

LeinadSpoon3848 karma

If you were the coach of the New England Patriots, what would you do to address their offensive struggles so far this year?

Lady_Gaga_2158 karma

I'll leave that in the hands of the sports experts..wish I could phone a friend on this one. Too bad Taylor (my football fan-expert bf) is at work.

mathdude4241979 karma

How does one go about acquiring a meat dress?

Lady_Gaga_3203 karma

A butcher and some fishing line. But there was a message behind that dress. I wore it attending the VMA'S with gay discharged soldiers from the military to make a statement. When we die, the meat on our bones bears no sexuality, no difference. We should not discriminate against those willing to give their life to protect Americans. Because when our lives are taken, we are meat all the same.

leftyguitarjoe1619 karma

I'm a heavy metal dude and you're my guilty pleasure music when nobody is watching.

What's music do you like that is strange or out of character to you?

Lady_Gaga_2664 karma

Im actually also a metal dudette, worked at a metal bar for years, and was a go-go dancer at rockn'roll clubs. Last night when i got my tattoo of the monster paw, I was listening to Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, Metallica, AC/DC, Judas Priest. And then other times I listen to Sigur Ros and nature sounds: like birds, water, and such.

But on other nights, i like to slug whisky and scream Bruce Springsteen and Garth Brooks with my dad in the bar at his restaurant. I have a lot of different sides to my personality, but even MORE different sides musically.

notstarboard703 karma

Ms. Gaga, ma'am, now we gotta know your favorite metal song

Lady_Gaga_2575 karma

BLACK SABBATH By. BLACK SABBATH I Need to write a song called "LADY GAGA" its the most metal thing you can do!

CrowClone1411 karma

In Bang Bang, you changed one lyric to

“Not for me, no church bells rang”

Why?

Lady_Gaga_1964 karma

I sometimes change small lyrics in the standards, to make them more personal to me. I thought of my ex-lover, he married someone else. "Not for me, no church bells rang."

PmButtPics4ADrawing1252 karma

What's it like to have a genus of ferns named after you?

Lady_Gaga_2111 karma

its pretty cool, especially since its it is a-sexual fern, there are 19 species contained within the genus. All sexless, judgeless, How cool. How I wish to be.

roastedbagel788 karma

Hey Gaga, thanks for doing this.

First off, you're beautifully talented and amazing. My question is, do you remember the very moment you actually stopped yourself for a moment, looked around, and thought "yep, I've finally made it"? Where were you/what were you doing when that occurred?

Second question: What's your favorite sandwich condiment?

Lady_Gaga_1342 karma

I have that moment almost everyday, I go in and out of what seems to be a dream sequence. Some moments I forget i've become a successful artist at all (when i'm working away writing songs) then other times I pinch myself. Because I couldn't be more humbled to be where I am today. FAVORITE SANDWICH CONDIMENT: mayo

FishnetSinner646 karma

Gaga - the simple fact that you might actually see this is a bit overwhelming...I'll try to keep it together! (who am I kidding, I'm a ball of nerves just writing this!)

It's been clear to your fans for ages, and now with Cheek to Cheek is clear to those who are less familiar with your music that you aren't simply a 'pop star' - rather you're a powerhouse musical artist. That matched with your acting skills that you've demonstrated on SNL and elsewhere (and your previous theatre background) lead me to long for the day when you bring your talents to a Broadway musical. Although I imagine if this were to happen, you'd be playing a new role that was written just for you, I'm curious - if you were to play your choice of any role in musical theatre, what would it be?

On a personal note: I've been a die hard fan since 2009 (you may also notice my username here is a nod to Marry the Night) Your music, especially your albums Born This Way and ARTPOP have helped me through two particularly difficult and dark periods in my life where I was challenged beyond anything I thought I could handle. These albums effortlessly became my daily soundtrack and now having survived those challenges, when I listen they continue to remind me of the strength you helped me find in myself. Thank you for your art, the joy you've brought to my life and the power and beauty of your voice that has helped me find my own.

Lady_Gaga_680 karma

Cabaret: Sally Bowles... and a cameo with Liza! Thank you for sharing your beautiful story, I'm so happy that the music and message of individuality have spoken to you. Your belief in me keeps me strong and creative.

Driezewies593 karma

Hi Gaga! :) We all know you're a good classical trained pianist. What classical music piece do you like the most?

Lady_Gaga_1108 karma

I love Mendelssohn's "Songs without words" book. This was the first time I realized classical music it the genesis of pop. The chord changes, the time signatures. It just had no lyrics yet. This inspired me to write poetry in line with these pieces.

Hollow_Panda577 karma

Hi Lady Gaga! What's a hobby that you're into that most of your fans don't know about?

Lady_Gaga_1421 karma

i'm really into healing, meditation, and helping to take care of those around me. When I'm not working I'm really a traditional italian girl at heart. I like to cook, keep everyone in a peaceful place, and reflect on the ways I can spread love with every invention.

I also like to shoot beer cans off the porch in PA with my bf, off our camo 4-wheeler. There's a lot you don't know! What a loaded question!!! <3

lazyass_tiger538 karma

You were raised in a Catholic family. You also said they were your support. What do they think of your LBGT activism? How are the relations with them now?

Lady_Gaga_1000 karma

I grew up Catholic, but we always had a very open and loving family. When I was young they never discriminate against the many gay friends I had from Theatre and dance school. Now they are more passionate than ever about LGBT rights and work day and night on my charity The Born This Way Foundation.

TheDuskDragon459 karma

Hello Lady Gaga! Thanks for doing an AMA.

Out of all the tattoos you have, which one has the most sentimental value to you and why?

Lady_Gaga_861 karma

My favorite tattoo is the one I got last night in Hamburg, its the Monster Paw, the symbol of my fans as they have held their paws high in the crowd every night since we became a community. I cherish it for its meaning, the loyalty, devotion, and strength we share. I wanted it engraved on me forever, <3

BREATHOFBRAHMA324 karma

do you invent your melodies yourself?

Lady_Gaga_756 karma

yes always, I've written all my songs, sometimes in collaboration with producers. But the melodies and the lyrics, these are my speciality. I LOVE WRITING SONGS, its like breathing fresh air!

Sakura_7309 karma

Do you watch anime?

Lady_Gaga_776 karma

I do! In fact I had "Hatsune Miku" a digital popstar 3d singing-hologram (anime inspired) artist open for me on the artRave!

sircharles420290 karma

If you could have lunch with anyone who has ever existed who would that personn be??

Lady_Gaga_463 karma

John Lennon

Alastair92231 karma

Hi Gaga :) The ‘deviation’ from pop to jazz has been really interesting for many like me who have never been exposed to this music previously. Are there any other musical genres that you would like to take explore in the future?

Lady_Gaga_419 karma

I was in a classic rock cover band at the same time I was in jazz band in highschool and doing jazz state competitions. We were called 'Mackin' Pulsifer' I have a real passion for Robert Plants vocals, Led Zeppelin was a huge inspiration for me. Im certain that side of my musicianship will seep through the pores of music in the future.

snugglehistory207 karma

You fierce bitch,

  • What was the process like when trying to figure out what songs to put on "Cheek to Cheek"? There are too many classics to choose from!

  • What is one word you would use to describe your relationship with Tony?

  • How jazzed are your parents that you're working with a guy that they probably listened to when they were your age?

Also, I went to the ARTPOP Ball and I was singin' and dancin' like I was alone at home in front of my mirror.

Also, also, I wrote you a more detailed "thank you, you're awesome" message on /r/ladygaga. I'd sob a thousand (joyful) tears if you read it and acknowledged my existence.

Lady_Gaga_288 karma

Tony and I spent over a year choosing and singing all sorts of standards from "The Great American Songbook." We chose the ones on the album for their message, their timeless longevity, and because we wished to embody a classic sound and approach to recording that would inspire the young generation who's discovering Jazz for the first time.

In one word, my relationship with Tony: magical.

My parents are so happy they can barely stand it! They've been on the road and by my side every second, with my sister Natali too, and Bobby my manager. Were all a big family.

KidShowtime200 karma

Who wins an arm wrestle.. you or Tony Bennett?

Lady_Gaga_480 karma

Tony, he's got the biggest balls in the business, as quoted by Frank Sinatra.

DSC_131 karma

Loved your cameo in Sin City.

Any plans on making more movie appearances in the future?

Lady_Gaga_210 karma

Yes! I'm just getting started. Looking forward to taking some time to write music and investigate new projects!

Lamprock126 karma

Hey, whats your opinion on cheap noodles?

Lady_Gaga_357 karma

nothing like Ramen, its saved many a starving lower east side nights!

ArtificeOfArt86 karma

Hello Gaga, thanks for doing this AMA! I recently bought Cheek to Cheek and you and Tony Bennett have rekindled my love for Jazz. I love the renditions and both of you sound absolutely phenomenal.

I have a few questions: 1. How are you today? 2. What was the most difficult song to record on the album? 3. Will you be releasing your original composition 'Paradise' in the future? I would love to hear it.

Thank you! I hope you're having a great day :)

Lady_Gaga_152 karma

  1. I am wonderful today how are you?! I'm loving my new tattoo!

  2. Recording "Lush Life" was difficult for me, not so much vocally as mentally and emotionally. It is autobiographical for me those lyrics. But Tony told me to use that pain to make the performance honest.

  3. I'm still finishing Paradise. It would be my first released jazz composition so I wanted to make it perfect!

MIMBs27 karma

Hello Gaga.. i'm a monster from Indonesia, a REALLY BIG FAN of YOU..

knowing that you'll be doing Cheek to Cheek Tour later in 2015, is there a chance you'll be visiting Indonesia? and since you've worked with Tony, what interesting facts did you found while working (recording) Cheek to Cheek with Tony?

Lady_Gaga_78 karma

I'm so excited to tour "Cheek To Cheek" with Tony. I of course have been pining to be with my fans in Indonesia for sometimes, and I am NOT giving up. Working with Tony, I was very interested in his extensive knowledge and support of the African American community during the Civil Rights movement. He talks frequently of how jazz was created by American Americans, and how the authenticity of their struggle bled into the honesty of the music they invented. He was best friends with Duke Ellington. His passion for compassion and equality is one of my most favorite things about him that I did not know before.