More than two million fans flocked to Rio de Janeiro’s iconic Copacabana Beach on Saturday night to witness Lady Gaga’s biggest concert ever, and it was completely free.
The event, funded by the city, aimed to boost Rio’s struggling economy and drew an estimated 2.1 million people. This surpasses last year’s Madonna concert attendance.
LADY GAGA’S FREE CONCERT
From early morning, dedicated fans, known as Gaga’s ‘Little Monsters,’ queued for hours to secure a spot on the vast sandy stage.
Among them was 22-year-old Alisha Duarte, who told AFP, “Lady Gaga is worth it! It’s going to get super crowded, but we’ll survive.”
Another fan, Luan Messias, travelled overnight by bus from São Paulo state just to be part of the spectacle, according to the BBC.
SECURITY PROTOCOLS
The city deployed a massive security operation with 5,000 police officers, metal detectors, drones, and facial recognition cameras to ensure safety at the event.
Despite the huge crowd, the atmosphere was electric and vibrant as thousands sang along to Gaga’s iconic hits like Poker Face and Abracadabra.
Many waved rainbow-themed fans, celebrating the singer’s message of acceptance and individuality.
LADY GAGA AND ‘MAYHEM’
Lady Gaga, 39, performed songs from her eighth album, Mayhem, including Die With a Smile. She also wore costumes inspired by Brazil, including outfits reflecting the national football team.
Emotionally unfurling a Brazilian flag, she told the crowd, “You waited for me, you waited for more than 10 years for me.
Brazil, I’m ready. I’m going to give it my all.” The concert closed with her legendary hit Bad Romance, leaving fans buzzing with joy.
RIO’S ECONOMY
The city expects the concert to inject roughly 600 million reais (about R10.3 billion) into Rio’s economy. This will benefit hotels, restaurants, bars, and local businesses during what is usually an off-season period.
Osmar Lima, Rio’s secretary of economic development, explained, “It generates activity in the city, filling hotels and boosting spending. It also creates jobs and income for residents.”
This event is part of a broader plan to host large free concerts annually until at least 2028, helping to revitalise Rio’s economy and cultural scene.
CELEBRATING IDENTITY
This spectacular gathering highlights the power of music to unite vast crowds and stimulate local economies.
It also echoes South Africa’s own vibrant festival culture, where music and community spirit drive tourism and business growth.
With that, Lady Gaga’s Copacabana concert was not just a show – it was a celebration of identity, resilience, and joy.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE LADY GAGA SONG AND WHY?
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