Lady Gaga returns to pop with edgy new single 'Disease'

Considering the music market is quite saturated, a few years between albums from our favourite artists don't hurt as much. We have plenty of other distractions to keep us occupied since Lady Gaga released her last pop album in 2020.

However, when you really think about it – it does hurt. Especially given the accelerated pace of the industry, which has conditioned consumers to expect new releases every two to three years. Corporations can't afford us to get bored, but Ms Lady Gaga can enjoy the luxury of creating at her own pace, driven by her needs and inspiration, without succumbing to the pressures of the fame cycle. More importantly, she is acutely aware of this, and that's why she also records jazz and standards, making fans wait for a pop treat while teaching them patience.

At last, we have it. Peace reigns because Lady Gaga has announced her eighth album and released the single "Disease".

The anticipation before the release was immense. Was it worth the wait? Absolutely, yes. "Disease" will definitely resonate with long-time fans who discovered Gaga during her early albums. Pop has evolved significantly since her debut in 2009, but it doesn't matter: she continues to set the bar high and stays one step ahead.

In today's mainstream pop, there's a noticeable emphasis on quality, the interplay with classic hits, and the trend of selecting the most catchy samples. Lady Gaga pays no heed to these norms, delivering a dark track, flirting with the edgy. Yet, she doesn't overstep the mark: she impresses with a nostalgic sound that feels fresh and unique now. If her entire new album follows this path, we owe thanks to her fiancé, who encouraged the star to refocus on pop.