hmm ... well it's already smashed records on iTunes and is currently the number 1 most downloaded song in 23 (!!!) countries around the world. so, regardless of any of our particular opinions, it's basically guaranteed to be a smash hit. i knew it would be, though, as everyone has been waiting and salivating in anticipation over new Gaga material.
i personally LOVE the song. it's clearly been [strongly] influenced by "Express Yourself", as well as "Vogue" and "Like A Prayer". i also hear a bit of Kelly Rowland's "When Love Takes Over". however, listen to one of the youtube clips of "Born This Way" compared with "Express Yourself". YES, they are similar, but it's hardly a ripoff.
the message of the song doesn't just apply to the gays. yes, it will become a massive gay anthem, just like every other dance appropriate song about "self-belief". because, with rare exceptions, gays have had to deal with a lot of **** growing up. a lot of self-esteem issues. a lot of their society telling them that they're "less than". so of course a message of "self-belief and confidence" will resonate. but it applies to EVERYBODY who feels like a freak. it applies to EVERYBODY that feels like an outsider. in other words, it applies to all of Gaga's "little monsters".
and it is in this that Gaga shows her brilliance. i can't think of ANY other major recording artist that has such a close and somehow personal connection with their fanbase. yes, all of the divas have rabid fans. some even name themselves ("Lambs", for example. lol). but, with the other women, like Madonna or Whitney or Mariah -- you always are aware that you are watching them. that they are this incredible uber-human that we have the honour of witnessing and celebrating and worshipping. that we are never truly connected, but more of a fortunate observer, privvy to their explorations and life. Gaga has made her fans (and there are millions of them) believe that she is different from this -- that she is living and performing FOR THEM. not for her own growth, or for her own trip or for her own fortune .. but FOR. THEM. she LIVES for her fans, and the entire being that is GAGA is only there to serve as a voice and a personification of all of their dreams and aspirations. and they believe it and feel it. and it's an incredible thing to see.
and because of that connection - Gaga isn't going anywhere. and a song like "Born This Way" takes on a higher meaning than it would, were it recorded by a different artist.
