Cannonball with Wesley Morris I Thought Lady Gaga Was Over. I Was Wrong.
Oct 16, 2025
Guest Caryn Ganz, the pop music editor at The New York Times, shares her insights on Lady Gaga's artistry and the transformative experience of the Mayhem tour. They discuss Gaga's evolution from early fame to her current persona, the gothic aesthetic of the tour, and how it recontextualizes her catalog. Caryn highlights powerful moments, like Gaga's giant red dress entrance and emotional piano performances. The conversation delves into themes of death, survival, and Gaga's deep connection with her fans, all while celebrating her unique blend of theatrics and reinvention.
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Gaga As Dark Pop's Originator
- Lady Gaga invented the Dark Pop performance language that many younger stars now borrow.
- Wesley Morris argues she turned the life cycle of a pop star into a gothic, theatrical art form.
Seeing Mayhem Changed Their Minds
- Caryn Ganz and Wesley Morris attended the final Mayhem show at Madison Square Garden.
- Both were struck by how the live performance reframed Gaga's career and songs.
A Roller Coaster Of Theatricality And Craft
- Gaga's career has been a roller coaster mixing high theatricality and sincere musicianship.
- Caryn Ganz says the core of a brilliant pop icon kept pulling her back despite uneven albums.