Album Review: THE FAME

Written By Kim Strauch

The title of fledgling artist Lady GaGa’s debut album The Fame appropriately reflects her recent meteoric rise to success. Gaga, born Stefani Germanotta, began her music career as as a songwriter for established pop artists including Fergie, New Kids on the Block, Britney Spears, and The Pussycat Dolls. Her talent was soon recognized by singer/producer Akon, who helped Gaga emerge in the spotlight as a singer.

The most successful songs on the album so far include the lead single, “Just Dance,” (which Akon produced and performed on) and the second single released, “Poker Face,” both of which have topped the Billboard Hot 100. Both songs are bass heavy and filled with electronic effects that make them easy to dance to as well as catchy to the point where you may find yourself humming along to the beat long after the music has stopped playing.

Gaga incorporates a dramatic, ostentatious sound with memorable pop melodies and hooks to create a sound described as “theatrical pop.”She admits that she has been heavily influenced by the glam-rock styles of David Bowie and Queen, but has also been inspired by pop icons, such as Michael Jackson and Madonna. Her repetitive lyrics and reliance on hard-hitting synthesizer beats help to ensure that her catchy songs will be stuck in your head.

Supported by unyielding, heavy dance beats, songs such as “Just Dance” and “Beautiful, Dirty, Rich” unashamedly portray her self-indulgent aspirations of living a glamorous life of riches, drinking, and partying. On the whole, this is an excellent debut album, which appeals to lovers of both mainstream and new pop music. Lady GaGa has made a grand splash in what will likely be the first of many albums to come.