Photo: Meeno 2008
Two weeks ago while out dancing I hit that all too familiar wall when you realize the night has gotten to that now-or-never point and you'll either going to head home or, if somehow inspired, stay and continue dancing-slash-cruising. I had no sooner decided to pack it in and started to make my way towards the door when I heard the opening thumpa-thumpa of Lady GaGa's hit "Just Dance" wafting out of the club's speakers. Like a sign from the great glam God above (or in the DJ booth), I knew there was no way I could leave while this song was playing. It's just too good.
Lady GaGa's music seems to have that effect on most people -- or at least most gays. Her voice wrapped in a cloak of slinky electro-pop, the singer-songwriter (a title which seems more fitting for a frumpy guitar strummer than a burgeoning diva who wouldn't be caught dead without sunglasses, a cat suit, and a metallic lightning bolt appliqué sizzling down half of her face) commanded the crowd of sweaty men to move -- and we were more than happy to follow her order.
I had the pleasure of talking to Lady GaGa (she takes her name from the Queen song "Radio GaGa") last week during a rare moment off from opening for the New Kids On the Block (see tour dates here). When I told her I worked for Out magazine, she squealed and revealed that though our interview was only supposed to last 15 minutes, "for the gays I'll talk to you for three hours!" We chatted about her cameo on MTV's The Hills, her search for a Lady GaGa draq queen, and what's up with Christina Aguilera trying to steal her look:
Out: We have to talk about Christina Aguilera. Lately she’s been looking an awful lot like a Lady GaGa knockoff. Is that flattering? Or does Xtina need to step off?
Lady GaGa: I feel even though yes, [Christina’s] VMA performance did resemble my style in some ways, I wouldn't say that she is stealing from me. But it's very flattering to be compared to a superstar, and I love and appreciate how protective my fans are of me. You see, it's not a look -- fashion is my life and I have always dressed this way. It's in my blood. I think Christina is great, so was her performance. No enemies here.
Head over to Out.com to read the full interview, and keep your eyes here for exciting news about a Lady GaGa drag queen contest coming soon!
Until then, get your fill of GaGa by checking out her MySpace page and scooping up her debut album, The Fame, when it's released next Tuesday. If you're in New York, you'll have two chances to see Lady GaGa live and in person: on Monday, October 27, she'll be doing an in-store performance and CD signing at the Union Square Virgin store and Tuesday, October 28, she'll be hosting a record release party at the Highline Ballroom with a who's who of the New York music and party scene including Cazwell, Semi Precious Weapons, Amanda Lepore, and more. It's reportedly sold out, but there'll probably be a few extras for sale before the party, and you can always try Craigslist.
-- NOAH MICHELSON
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