When I first heard of Lady Gaga, she seemed like a character and not a real person. I didn't like her songs (lyrics of blatant drunkenness and gratuitous sex) and her persona was so provocative that it reminded me, unfortunately, of Madonna from my growing up years. Her trajectory of provocation didn't interest me at all. I disliked my young daughter singing the refrain of Poker Face. Then I saw a video of her on a radio show.
I couldn't find the video, and I'm not even entirely sure what song she played. She sat at a keyboard. She was absorbed in her playing. This was the era where she would dress with Ascot hats and Japanese geisha lips. But despite her carefully crafted appearance, when she began to play, her talent was raw and humble. She was entrancing. She was a natural performer, with nimble fingers, and she slowly built up the acoustics. Then she started to sing, and her voice was more powerful than her melody. By the end of performance, she was playing with her feet. It exceeded all expectations and was a testiment to her incredible skill. But that moment was a culmination of years of planning, hard work, and passion. From that moment on, based on my second impression, I have been blown away by her work.
This is not that song, but the drama is similar: Paparazzi
I haven't seen her in the movie A Star is Born, but the videos of the songs sure look like it might be worth a watch. Here is my favorite dramatic moment: Shallow. Even if you don't buy her nerves, watch her break out that all star voice. I don't think Bradley Cooper has to act out his pride and joy at that moment. Kudos to you, Gaga! You earn every performance.
So, as much as I am a big believer in first impressions often being the truest one, it is fun when it takes a second impression to really knock your socks off.
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