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‘I Was Headbanging!’: Lady Gaga Surprises AC/DC’s Brian Johnson with Hidden Extra Story
Lady Gaga is a pop star known for her chart-topping hits, unforgettable fashion choices, and bold creations. But beneath the glitz, costumes, and choreography, Gaga harbors a deep love of rock—a passion that once took her to an unexpected place: an AC/DC music video. While her Little Monsters may be familiar with her penchant for glam rock and metal-inspired performances, few know the full story of how Lady Gaga found herself rocking out to the legendary rock band. The story is as wild, rebellious, and rock-and-roll as you might expect.
The Origins of Gaga’s Rock Love
Before we dive into the music video’s introduction, it’s worth exploring Gaga’s longstanding love affair with rock music. Born Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, Gaga grew up in New York City, where she was influenced by a diverse mix of artists. Her musical tastes were shaped by her father’s classic rock vinyl collection, which included bands like Queen, Led Zeppelin, and yes—AC/DC.
Even in her early days performing in clubs on the Lower East Side, Gaga’s performances were imbued with a stage style inspired by the greats of rock. She often cites David Bowie and Freddie Mercury as major influences, but her respect for the rebellious, powerful energy of AC/DC has always been part of her creative DNA.
The Call to Rock: An Unexpected Invitation
The year was 2014, and AC/DC was preparing to release their 16th studio album, Rock or Bust. As part of their promotional campaign, the band planned a vibrant music video for their title track, one that would celebrate their no-frills, hard-hitting rock identity. Directed by David Mallet, who had worked with the band on iconic videos like “Thunderstruck,” the shoot was planned to include an audience full of passionate fans to recreate the electric energy of a live concert.
So, how did Lady Gaga wind up in the mix?
It turns out Gaga’s connection to the world of rock music runs deeper than many realize. At the time, she had collaborated with a number of musicians in the rock and metal scene, including members of Metallica and Queen. Through a network of mutual friends, word reached AC/DC that the pop star—already a household name—was eager to be a part of their upcoming project. A fan herself, Gaga jumped at the chance to appear in the music video. She didn’t ask for a starring role; instead, she wanted to join the fans in the crowd and experience the music like everyone else.
“Gaga didn’t come to the set as a star,” a crew member recalled. “She came as a fan. She wanted to be part of it, she wanted to have a blast, and she wanted to honor one of her favorite bands.”
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On Set: Gaga the Rock Fan
The shoot took place in a small, intimate location—the kind of rough-hewn setting in which AC/DC thrives. Fans were invited to pack the space, dressed in classic rock attire: leather jackets, ripped jeans, and band T-shirts. Lady Gaga arrived in secret, eschewing high fashion for a more rock-appropriate look: black jeans, combat boots, and an AC/DC T-shirt she’s reportedly owned for years. Her signature platinum hair was tucked under a beanie, and she looked every inch the devoted fan.
As the cameras started rolling, Gaga launched into her performance. The energy in the room was palpable, with Angus Young playing his iconic riffs and the crowd roaring in unison. At one point, Gaga was spotted shaking her head so hard that her beanie flew off, revealing her unmistakable blonde locks. The other fans around her barely recognized who she was at first, so caught up in the moment.
“I wasn’t Lady Gaga that day,” she later reflected in an interview. “I was just another fan in the crowd, living for the music. That’s what rock-and-roll is all about—losing yourself in the sound and the energy.”
For those paying close attention, Gaga’s cameo is easy to spot in the final cut of the Rock or Bust video. Midway through, as the camera pans over the excited crowd, a familiar face appears, swaying with his arms raised. It’s a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moment, but for fans of both Gaga and AC/DC, it’s an Easter egg worth celebrating.
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Why It Matters: Bridging Pop and Rock
Lady Gaga’s appearance in AC/DC’s video isn’t just a funny story. It highlights her versatility as an artist and her respect for music of all genres. Gaga has always resisted labels, and this moment underscores her refusal to be limited to pop music. Her love of rock music is genuine, and it’s something she’s incorporated into her career time and time again.
From her raw, guitar-heavy tracks on Joanne to her electrifying 2017 Super Bowl halftime show, where she covered Metallica and celebrated the rebellious spirit of rock, Gaga has proven that her art transcends boundaries. By stepping into an AC/DC video, even as a fan, she celebrated the genre that shaped her and connected with a band that paved the way for countless artists.
“I think people forget that music is music,” Gaga once said. “Pop, rock, jazz—it’s all about connecting with people and making them feel something. AC/DC makes people feel alive, and I’m proud to say I’m one of their fans.”
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The Legacy of Gaga’s Rock Moment
For AC/DC fans, Lady Gaga’s presence in the Rock or Bust video is a testament to the band’s enduring influence. Their music brings together people from all walks of life, proving that rock-and-roll transcends genre, fame, and status. For Gaga’s Little Monsters, the cameo is another reminder of her authenticity and her willingness to honor the artists who inspire her.
Years after the music video’s release, the story of Lady Gaga’s secret headbanging session remains a fan favorite. It’s a rock-and-roll moment that encapsulates everything we love about Gaga: her passion, her respect for music history, and her ability to surprise us in the best ways possible.
As she continues to grow and push the boundaries of her career, one thing remains certain: Lady Gaga will always have a rock-and-roll in her heart—and she will never stop rocking out to the tunes that move her.
Conclusion
Lady Gaga’s journey from pop icon to AC/DC video extra is a story of fandom, passion, and the universal power of music. Whether she’s on stage, in the studio, or rocking out to the crowd, Gaga has proven time and time again that great music knows no boundaries. Her cameo in Rock or Bust isn’t just a nod to her rock roots; it’s a celebration of the music that unites us all.
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