Pop icon and fervent LGBTQ+ advocate Lady Gaga took center stage on the opening night of her Las Vegas residency, belting out a heartfelt rendition of her monumental anthem, “Born This Way,” in an acoustic, jazzy style. The enchanting performance, laced with an unwavering dedication to trans rights, enthralled the audience at Dolby Live at Park MGM last August 31.
Embraced in the aura of Old Hollywood glamor, Gaga poised herself at the piano, prefacing her song with a powerful declaration: “I’ve got something to say about trans rights in this country.” Amidst a wave of applause, she urged everyone, “You got something to say, you gotta speak up, right?”
As the chords resonated, she crooned the evocative lyrics: “There’s nothing wrong with loving who you are, ’cause He made you perfect, babe … I’m beautiful in my way/ God makes no mistakes.” Gaga’s impassioned rendition emphasized her unwavering support for transgender individuals.
Touching upon the importance of listening and understanding, Gaga paused briefly, stating, “And you know, sometimes you hear people say things like, ‘I don’t always know what to say.’ Just listen. Don’t say nothin’. Listen to the stories of real people’s lives.”
“Born This Way,” released as the lead single from Gaga’s groundbreaking album of the same name, has remained relevant over the years, particularly in light of the persistent threats to LGBTQ+ rights by politicians in 2023. The song’s empowering lyrics resonate deeply, showcasing love and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community.
Lady Gaga’s Jazz & Piano residency, which will run until October 5 in Sin City, promises a blend of Great American Songbook standards and acoustic renditions of her iconic hits. The residency encapsulates Gaga’s commitment to the jazz and traditional pop realm, following her collaboration with the late Tony Bennett.
In a time where LGBTQ+ rights are continually challenged and threatened, Gaga’s resounding dedication to transgender rights serves as a beacon of support and solidarity, reminding us all to embrace who we are without fear or compromise.
Sources:
- Ashley, B. (2023). Lady Gaga turns jazz version of ‘Born This Way’ into trans rights rallying cry. PinkNews.
- Dailey, H. (2023, September 1). Lady Gaga Dedicates ‘Born This Way’ to Trans Rights During Las Vegas Residency Opening Night. Billboard.
- Image Credit: Kevin Mazur