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?
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
What's it like to have a genus of ferns named after you?
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.
Hi Gaga! :) We all know you're a good classical trained pianist. What classical music piece do you like the most?
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.
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.
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.
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?
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
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.
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.
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?
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.
If you were the coach of the New England Patriots, what would you do to address their offensive struggles so far this year?
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.
Hi Lady Gaga! What's a hobby that you're into that most of your fans don't know about?
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
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?
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.
Ms. Gaga, ma'am, now we gotta know your favorite metal song
BLACK SABBATH By. BLACK SABBATH I Need to write a song called "LADY GAGA" its the most metal thing you can do!
Who wins an arm wrestle.. you or Tony Bennett?
Tony, he's got the biggest balls in the business, as quoted by Frank Sinatra.
How does one go about acquiring a meat dress?
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.
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?
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.
Do you watch anime?
I do! In fact I had "Hatsune Miku" a digital popstar 3d singing-hologram (anime inspired) artist open for me on the artRave!
If you could have lunch with anyone who has ever existed who would that personn be??
John Lennon
Would you rather fight off 1 horse-sized duck or 100 duck-sized horses using just a disco stick?
I'd rather fight off the 1 horse-sized duck, I think it would be easier than dealing with all those f*ckers running around.
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?
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.
Loved your cameo in Sin City.
Any plans on making more movie appearances in the future?
Yes! I'm just getting started. Looking forward to taking some time to write music and investigate new projects!
Hi Gaga! So happy you are doing this for the Reddit community! My question is; after accomplishing as much as you have, what is the main thing you still hope to accomplish in your life? You are such an inspiration so I would love to hear your answer to my question :) Thanks again!
I wish to put on a performance that will change the world consciousness of love forever.
Hey, whats your opinion on cheap noodles?
nothing like Ramen, its saved many a starving lower east side nights!
In Bang Bang, you changed one lyric to
“Not for me, no church bells rang”
Why?
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."
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 :)
I am wonderful today how are you?! I'm loving my new tattoo!
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.
I'm still finishing Paradise. It would be my first released jazz composition so I wanted to make it perfect!
What kind of men do u like?
I like a real gentleman. Like Tony Bennett. Classic, Charming, Gentle...a man that knows how to treat a real lady.
do you invent your melodies yourself?
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!