By Madeleine Morales ’18, Lifestyle Section Editor

Lady Gaga, singer, song-writer, artist, dancer, LGBTQ+ activist, women’s rights advocate, and absolute ICON, is on her sixth world tour. I was fortunate to come across some tickets the week prior to her performance in Louisville, and was over the moon. Because she has always inspired me, I have always said I wanted to see her perform live once in my lifetime, and after attending her Louisville concert, I can confidently say I was wrong: I should see her as many times as possible.

Joanne was a questionable album. Debuting in October of 2016, Gaga’s sixth album was initially disappointing. I liked her few singles, but the country vibes shocked me on some of the lesser known tunes. Over the summer, I really started listened to it, and began to like it more, even though it was not conventional Gaga. Her self-proclaimed “most honest” album, and “closest to who [she] truly [is],” is an intimate experience with one’s memories, heart, and true being, though it may not make you want bop to every track. I admired her courage in changing her image. 

The most impressive part of her concert was her speech about respecting yourself and others. She eloquently addressed the anti-LGBTQ+ protestors milling around the outside of the arena. They could chant their nasty slurs and misquoted Bible verses all they wanted too, but Gaga said “no one in this room should boo them, but feel compassion for those sad people.” What a beautiful message. She truly harnesses positive energy and aims to spread kindness, even to those who may not give it to others.

The concert was an absolute experience filled with colors, wild dancing, heartfelt belting and more. All songs ranging from her breakout Just Dance to Million Reasons were performed with grace and guts, an admirable combination. I always loved Gaga, but the concert truly made me grasp how iconic she is to 21^st century pop culture, and her fans. What a woman, what a night.