Lady Gaga’s highly anticipated new album, Mayhem, draws significant inspiration from two iconic rock bands of the ’90s, alongside legendary figures from various other eras of rock music. Throughout her illustrious career, Gaga has ventured into a myriad of musical styles, showcasing her versatility as an artist. Although the tracks she has previewed from Mayhem thus far resonate with her established dance-pop roots, she reveals that the album’s creative direction is heavily influenced by renowned rock artists.

In a recent discussion on her SiriusXM channel, Gaga highlighted that the groundbreaking track “Closer” by Nine Inch Nails played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of Mayhem. This revelation adds an intriguing layer to her artistic journey and invites speculation about how her sound will evolve. It would be fascinating to hear Trent Reznor’s perspective on this, especially since he has publicly shared his admiration for pop artists like Sabrina Carpenter and Dua Lipa, indicating a broader appreciation for diverse musical influences.

During her conversation with Elle, Gaga elaborated on the myriad of musical influences that have shaped her work. She expressed, “There was industrial inspiration with many of the sounds. A significant transitional moment on the album is deeply rooted in ’90s music, embodying a kind of electro-grunge defiance.” This statement underscores the complexity of her artistic vision, as she reflects on how this era in music was a response to preceding styles, merging elements of theatrical rock from David Bowie, the innovative sounds of Prince, and the experimental nature of Radiohead. Gaga’s passion for music is palpable as she explains how these diverse influences have become integral to her identity as an artist.

READ MORE: 15 Rockers Who Are Huge Fans of Pop Stars

Gaga further revealed that her listening habits vary significantly, with some phases dedicated to a specific genre while other times she immerses herself in a blend of her favorite musical styles. This eclectic approach is aptly reflected in the album title Mayhem, which symbolizes the chaotic yet harmonious fusion of various sounds that characterize her latest work. Fans can eagerly anticipate the release, as Mayhem is set to drop tomorrow, March 7, promising an exciting new chapter in her musical journey.

Exploring Lady Gaga’s Rock Roots and Influences

Before rising to global fame as a pop sensation, Lady Gaga had her roots in rock music, famously performing in a cover band dedicated to Led Zeppelin. During a memorable interview with Howard Stern in 2016, she showcased her vocal prowess by singing a snippet of the iconic song “Black Dog,” a moment that delighted fans and highlighted her rock background. Additionally, footage of her band performing “D’yer Mak’er” serves as a testament to her deep connection to rock music and her appreciation for its rich history.

Watch Lady Gaga Perform Led Zeppelin’s ‘Black Dog’

Experience Lady Gaga’s Cover of ‘D’yer Mak’er’ (Led Zeppelin)