When Lady Gaga created an entire jazz album with music legend Tony Bennett, everyone thought she would quit pop. These anxieties were somewhat reinforced with "Joanne". But her big screen debut as rising pop star Ally Maine in the 2018 remake of the film "A Star Is Born" shows that Gaga hasn't quit pop, she just took a break. She also shows that she is still the versatile queen we all have come to love. Though I would argue the entire soundtrack is amazing, here are some of my personal favorites from the film that reflect Gaga's wide portfolio of music.
1. "Shallow"
As the first single to this film, "Shallow" gives us the premise of what this movie is all about. It follows the story of a troubled country singer that finds newness and love in a girl who hasn't found her potential. Moreover, it also shows that these two find love in their ability to hold each other up. Or if you want me to cut to the chase, this song shows that Bradley Cooper is actually a brilliant artist and Gaga is too (but did we really need a reminder on that?).
2. "Always Remember Us This Way"
If you have a special someone in your life, whether it be platonically or romantically, "Always Remember Us This Way" is ideal for either occasion. Gaga's solo work here gives us a great song to listen while looking out the window to a cloudy day on a train. You might want to grab a tissue or two, because this one is definitely a tear-jerker. And watch out, Ed Sheeran. This is the new song newlyweds will dance to at their reception. Believe me when I say that.
3. "Look What I Found"
Think of this song as "Always Remember Us This Way" but the opposite rhythm: upbeat, jazzy, and song you want to hug your loved ones to. "Look What I Found" definitely brings out Gaga's remnants of jazz, with some of the trumpet riffs literally being music to your ears. I also found out that this is a great song to wake up to and put you in a good mood for the rest of the day. If you're looking for something like that, you're in luck.
4. "Hair Body Face"
Many in Gaga's fandom have said that she has mysteriously forgotten her song "The Cure", which many said to be Gaga's return to pop. When listening to "Hair Body Face" it raises the question if maybe it wasn't Gaga singing "The Cure" but Ally. This song sounds eerily similar to Gaga's single that she released when she headlined Coachella. With her fiery vocals and R&B hues, "Hair Body Face" brings back the Gaga we all knew her for and loved. Add this to your workout playlist.
5. "I'll Never Love Again"
Ok, I'm going to try and not spoil the film in this description. Gaga or Whitney? After hearing this song, you might find yourself asking this question. In the finale of the film, Gaga just keeps the waterworks coming. Her powerful vocals leading this powerful ballad demonstrates that maybe Gaga is more than just the queen of pop, but the queen of music in general. You can definitely hear the influence of Whitney Houston here in this song, which is why some might call this one the "I'll Always Love You" of the next generation. And if you have or plan on seeing this movie, you will definitely will understand why I advise to bring Kleenex. To quote a famous philosopher on Twitter, "YAAAAAAAAS Gaga!!"
