By Ellie Pitkowsky ’18, Section Editor 

It is hard to argue that Lady Gaga’s Super Bowl halftime show was anything short of spectacular. From incredible dancing, to crazy outfits, to jumping off of structures – and not to mention impressive vocals on top of all of that – it was truly captivating. To some viewers, the show might have come across as just another halftime show. The classic over-the-top lighting, staging, and costuming were employed, as was the spirit that is always present at the Super Bowl halftime performances. In reality, Gaga’s show was far more profound and nuanced than one may have seen initially.

With her performance, Gaga sought to please all viewers. She was sure to perform her classics, including “Bad Romance,” “Poker Face,” and “Telephone” to entertain her fan base, also known as “little monsters.” However, she also was sure to include a more far-reaching and agreeable aspect to the performance. In addition to her set of normal songs, Gaga performed the American classics, “This Land is Your Land” and “God Bless America.” These songs, which are clearly not part of Gaga’s usual repertoire, served as a symbol of inclusion and unity in a time of serious concern and division among the American people. Prior to the Super Bowl, many were concerned and convinced that Gaga’s performance would be entirely political, as she is known for speaking out about many social justice issues, particularly sexual assault and LGBTQ rights. Instead, the talented 30 year-old took to something more subtle and universal.

In addition to singing parts of these two songs, Gaga further promoted the theme of inclusion by singing another one of her iconic songs, “Born This Way.” The theme of the song is clearly acceptance, seen in the line “No matter gay, straight, or bi, lesbian, transgendered life/ I’m on the right track baby/ I was born to survive.” Utilizing her song as part of her message made a statement but did not in any way take away from the celebratory vibe of the event. In fact, it very much added to the night with this theme of acceptance. Gaga ended her presentation by quoting the Pledge of Allegiance, specifically the end line “with liberty and justice for all” with clear emphasis on the phrase “for all.”

While some view the Super Bowl halftime show as the perfect opportunity to grab another slice of pizza or talk to friends while waiting for the game to come back on, Gaga’s performance was certainly one worth watching not only because of the entertaining aspect but also because of the very important message she sought to project. Gaga’s great variety in her set list not only emphasized the American nature of the tradition of the Super Bowl, but also the idea that no matter our background – our roots, sexuality, race, or anything else – we are all American people and deserved to be treated as equals.