Lady Gaga dazzled audiences this week in the eighth and likely final iteration of her Las Vegas residency, Lady Gaga: Jazz and Piano.
Though primarily known as a pop artist, Lady Gaga began her career singing jazz as a teenager, making it inevitable that she would produce a show like this. The only element missing was the perfect setting, and Las Vegas provided just that.
The show is a love letter to the city, the jazz legends who performed there, and the glamour that defines it. Gaga and her team captured the essence of a classic Vegas residency with a glittering backdrop, an exceptional band, and a stunning wardrobe.
Following her successful collaborations with the legendary Tony Bennett, it was no surprise that Lady Gaga would return to her jazz roots with a true spectacular. The residency was announced in 2017 and launched with two shows: Enigma, a surreal pop experience, and Jazz and Piano. Development began in 2018 while she was promoting her Academy Award-winning film, A Star Is Born. Enigma premiered in December 2018, with Jazz and Piano debuting in January 2019.
In this show, Lady Gaga was in her element, offering interpretations of iconic jazz songs alongside stripped-down versions of her own pop hits. It was a performance for everyone, whether die-hard ‘Little Monsters’ or fans of Frank Sinatra and Duke Ellington. Gaga made it clear that the show was introducing her to a new audience, stating, “I can’t wait for my jazz fans to come see a pop show,” to an audience from all walks of life.
The performance also offered a deep dive into the history of jazz and live music in Las Vegas. During costume changes, montages of Gaga in old Hollywood glamour played on screen, providing lessons on the history of residencies in the city. Stories from Tony Bennett about legendary jam sessions on the Strip added a fascinating touch.
Lady Gaga was accompanied by the incomparable trumpet player Brian Newman, with whom she has performed since the age of 19. Featured musicians included Alex Smith (piano/organ), Steve Kortyka (saxophone), Donald Barrett (drums), and Daniel Foose (bass). Each musician’s talent was highly valued by Gaga, evident as she shook each member’s hand at the end of the show.
Conductor Michael Bearman led a stellar five-piece band, augmented by a 26-piece orchestra that elevated nearly every song. Many of Gaga’s hits were performed solo and stripped back on the piano, though some, like “Paparazzi,” were transformed with the grandeur of the orchestra. A playful atmosphere prevailed, with tremendous solos by each band member throughout the night.
Tony Bennett’s spirit was palpable during the show. His discography played as the venue’s house music, and an intro from him began the show, complemented by a beautiful tribute in the Playbill. A highlight was Gaga standing at the front of the stage without a mic, belting “Fly Me to the Moon” in tribute to her late friend. She also performed Bennett’s song “Rags to Riches” as “Gaga bucks” fell from the ceiling and delivered a stunning rendition of “Orange Colored Sky,” the track that first caught Tony’s eye in 2011. The emotional connection was clear, reflecting their deep bond and countless performances together.
The set featured songs from the Great American Songbook by Nat King Cole, Cole Porter, Irving Berlin, Frank Sinatra, Jackie Gleason, Dean Martin, and more, all given the Gaga big band treatment.
The show concluded with a dramatic flourish as gold confetti showered the audience during a rousing rendition of “New York, New York,” bringing the crowd to their feet.
This residency showcased Lady Gaga at her finest, completely at home and exuding confidence. As an accomplished artist, this performance was a standout among her shows. With only three performances left, it’s a Vegas spectacular not to be missed.
