Lady Gaga took the stage at the Super Bowl LIX, held on February 9, 2025, and delivered a performance that left the audience discussing long after it ended. Performing live from Bourbon Street in New Orleans, Gaga’s rendition of “Hold My Hand,” a power ballad from 2022 featured in the movie “Top Gun: Maverick,” was met with both praise and critique.

Renowned television personality Michael Strahan and football legend Tom Brady were present to introduce Lady Gaga. The pair stood surrounded by emergency responders and spectators, each wearing shirts with symbolic messages. Strahan wore a “NOLA Strong” T-shirt, while Brady donned an L.A. Fire Department shirt. Their words before the performance echoed a sentiment of resilience:

“This year began with a terror attack that tried to shatter its spirit. But the resilience of New Orleans is matched by the resolve of our country,” Strahan said. Brady added, “When tragedy strikes, we don’t break, we come together. We rise above and never let evil win.”

The crowd in New Orleans was stirred as the camera captured Lady Gaga at the piano. She was dressed in an immaculate all-white outfit topped with an oversized hat that dramatically completed her look. Her attire was a tailored suit, fitting perfectly with the emotional tone of the tribute.

Her stage was set amidst a sea of attendees, including military personnel and civilians. The stage glowed under purple lights, and the surrounding was filled with neon lights from nearby bars and venues, contributing to the vibrant yet heartfelt atmosphere. Lady Gaga’s voice filled the air, adding depth to the unified mood the performance aimed to create.

As with any major performance, Gaga’s rendition ignited a range of responses online. Some criticized her for unclear lyrics and questioned her lip-syncing, yet many were moved by the raw emotion she conveyed through her performance. “I genuinely teared up,” one admirer stated, appreciating Gaga’s vocal talent and expressing the desire for more artists with her genuine approach.

The display was about more than music; it was a tribute in the wake of significant tragedies that had struck the United States. These events included devastating wildfires in Southern California, starting on January 7, which had displaced over 30,000 residents. Among those forced to flee were well-known figures like Dick Van Dyke and Chrissy Teigen.

Shortly disclosed was a violent attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans. An individual drove a truck into a crowd, initiated a gunfire exchange, resulting in multiple casualties, and was later identified as connected to extremist activity. This tragic event prompted investigations into potential links to terrorism.

With the backdrop of these events, Lady Gaga’s performance transcended entertainment. It offered solace and acknowledgment of the collective grief and resilience. While there were jesting comments about song choices, for many, Gaga’s “Hold My Hand” was a poignant tribute befitting the moment.

Before the performance, differing opinions emerged, with some suggesting she perform her new track, “Abracadabra.” However, the focus remained on her touching tribute, which many found surprisingly fitting for the occasion. Gaga herself connected with fans on social media by sharing performances of her new music, expressing her usual blend of theatrical flair.

Lady Gaga, known for her artistry and theatrical performances, brought her distinctive style to her TikTok uploads, filled with energy and creative dance alongside her latest releases. These moments of levity added a contrasting joy to the remembered solemnity of her Super Bowl tribute.