Lady GaGa became a global superstar the moment that she released her debut album in 2008, The Fame. She released a new album this year, Born This Way, and she is a multiple Grammy Award winner. Apart from selling millions of records around the world, though, perhaps her greatest achievement (one that any artist can hope for), is the relationship that she has fostered with her family of fans -- little monsters. A new book has been released by Grand Central Publishing: Lady GaGa x Terry Richardson. The book captures some of the poignant moments from over 30 Monster Ball concerts, and takes the reader on a journey of behind the scenes moments from events such as the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards and other moments from the life of the star. The book provides insight into moments viewed, and those that remained unseen until now. The photographs were taken beginning with the Lollapalooza performance in 2010, and ended with Lady GaGa’s performance on the Grammy Awards in 2011. Terry Richardson captured over 100,000 photographs, and the book has become an instant success with the fans that are thrilled with the images that were captured by the famed photographer.
The Lady GaGa x Terry Richardson book captures everything from the star in the recording studio, to preparing to walk the red carpet at the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards in Alexander McQueen, and then changing to the infamous dress fashioned from fresh meat that made the social statement desired by the star. Other moments include Lady GaGa sitting at her piano, performing for countless fans. Pages also capture televised events, such as Lady GaGa’s performance of “Born This Way,” the title track from the album that has become an anthem for fans around the world. Other pages show emotional instants of the final Monster Ball concert. What every photograph has in common, is that each of them is candid, and captures the very essence of the particular moment. When one looks at photographs of the Monster Ball, one is instantly transported back to the experience of the tour: to see Lady GaGa bring her music to life in an artistic and authentic way on stage. The book brings these various moments to life.
Lady GaGa (whether it is during acceptance speeches for awards, Twitter updates, or meeting fans around the world), has said that she appreciates little monsters, and is grateful for them. The fans, likewise, express the same things to her. In fact, the book is dedicated to little monsters. Not only does she inspire with the music that she creates, but the example that she has set has motivated others to do their best to make the world a better place -- to be committed to the causes close to their hearts. She is not just a pop superstar, for many fans, she is a hero: a beacon of light illuminating love and acceptance to all who are receptive to the message. There are photographs showing the fans separated from the star by a fence, and Lady GaGa taking the time to sign items . Fans can be seen reaching for her under the fence, hoping to catch a glimpse of the star, and perhaps even obtain an autograph. Lady GaGa gleefully signed items. For fans, this moment in time captured is certainly something that they will remember forever. Over the course of the Monster Ball tour, many fans traveled long distances to see her perform live, and hoped to possibly meet her -- and this dream came true for many. The star is honest with her fans -- an attribute that is valued. Lady GaGa x Terry Richardson is a gleaming example of this. Fans will look through the book at the various photographs contained within, and will be inspired again. Readers will see the artist that gives her all, that shares much of herself in her music, and performances.
Lady GaGa has brought attention to social issues, and is having a positive impact. She was a very influential force in the repeal of the “don’t ask, don’t tell” rule. In 2010, she attended a rally in Portland, Maine. This is one of the moments captured in the book. She encouraged fans to rally and call senators to see the change take place, and it did.
Lady GaGa is an icon, and her talent and style thrives because it is genuine. The star is not just the music, not just the fashion -- she is everything to those that she inspires. The star’s appearances at red carpet events and performances on various shows, showcase her artistic vision, inventiveness, and fervor for fashion. The outfits that Lady GaGa wore during the Monster Ball -- everything from the jackets to the shoes are shown in the book -- ensembles that will be remembered by all who witnessed the extraordinary tour, and that were as integral a part of the production as was the music.
In the beginning of the book, Lady GaGa reveals that she is “so real, that I am unreal,” as said to her by Terry Richardson. The photographer created a masterpiece with the new book of photographs, and fans everywhere are certainly thrilled with the moments captured, and they in turn bring back other memories to the readers. The book of photographs causes readers to ponder Lady GaGa -- the artist, the human being. Within the artist is a wealth of insight and artistic expression, and there is much more yet to perceive. This book summons readers to ponder the superstar, and to value the integrity of what the book represents. 2012 is near, and it is certain to be another year of unforgettable moments for Lady GaGa and for the fans everywhere that will be witnesses to her continual triumphs.
Lady GaGa x Terry Richardson retails for $50.00 in the United States. For more information on the Lady GaGa x Terry Richardson book, please visit: www.HachetteBookGroup.com.
For more information on Lady GaGa, and all of the latest news, please visit the official Lady GaGa website at: www.LadyGaGa.com.
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