Lady Gaga Reveals the 15 Songs That Shaped Her Iconic Career

Lady Gaga has shared the music that defines her life. The superstar did this for a new video series. She sat down with Rolling Stone for the project this week.

The series explores the artist’s deepest musical inspirations. Gaga discussed tracks from Bruce Springsteen to Miles Davis. Her choices reveal the foundation of her own sound.

From Springsteen’s Grit to Bowie’s Drama

Gaga’s list began with Bruce Springsteen’s “Thunder Road.” She called it an instant choice. She said Springsteen’s grit influenced her whole career.

His soulfulness was on her mind making “Born This Way.” That album looked back on her life. It was more personal than her earlier work.

She also selected Beck’s “Nicotine & Gravy.” That song spoke to her life at age nineteen. It soundtracked her time in New York’s Lower East Side.

Gaga said watching Beck change made her want to evolve. Other picks included classic rock anthems. She named Led Zeppelin’s “Thank You” and the Rolling Stones.

The Message Behind the Music

A key pick was Carl Bean’s 1977 song “I Was Born This Way.” Gaga said it inspired her own iconic anthem. She wondered how to flip it into a modern pop record.

That genesis led to what she calls her most important career record. It mattered for its artistic value and its message. According to Rolling Stone, she values music that helps people see themselves.

She described such records as powerful soundtracks for friend groups. Her final choices included Justice’s electronic track “Stress.” Gaga joked she gave more than ten songs and could keep going.

Lady Gaga’s musical journey highlights a lifetime of diverse influences. Her list proves great artists are built on the songs that came before them.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the “My Life in 10 Songs” series?

It is a new video series by Rolling Stone. Artists discuss the tracks that most influenced them. Lady Gaga was a recent featured guest.

Which song did Gaga connect to her father?

She connected Bruce Springsteen’s “Thunder Road” to her dad. He played it for her in their living room as a child. The song reminds her of romanticizing the past.

How did Carl Bean’s music influence Gaga?

His 1977 song “I Was Born This Way” directly inspired her 2011 anthem. She wanted to transform its message into a modern pop record. This became a cornerstone of her career.

What classic rock artists did Gaga mention?

She listed Led Zeppelin, the Rolling Stones, and Iron Butterfly. She talked about their drama and theatricality. These elements became part of her own artistic yin and yang.

Why did she choose Beck’s “Nicotine & Gravy”?

It captured her experience as a 19-year-old in New York. The song represented a specific time of discovery and change. It mirrored her own desire for artistic evolution.