Lady Gaga’s 'Mayhem' Blends Funk, 80s Pop, and Retro Influences

The artist’s seventh studio album surprises fans with a departure from its singles, embracing nostalgic sounds and personal introspection.

Lady Gaga’s new album 'Mayhem,' released on March 7, 2025, features a strong 1980s influence, drawing inspiration from artists like Prince, David Bowie, and Michael Jackson.
The album deviates from the darker tones of its singles 'Disease' and 'Abracadabra,' instead leaning into funk, disco, and pop elements with a retrospective feel.
Tracks such as 'Zombieboy' and 'Killah' showcase Gaga’s use of retro sounds, with nods to her earlier work and references to her influences, including French electronic dance and analog synths.
Thematically, 'Mayhem' reflects Gaga’s attempt to reconcile her public persona with her private self, resulting in a mix of theatricality and personal introspection.
Critics and fans note the album’s simpler, more confident songwriting, marking a shift from Gaga’s past experimental projects while still maintaining her signature creativity.