Lady Gaga's performance at the Paris Olympics opening ceremony drew a range of reactions from social media users, with some praising her while others criticized her for alleged technical difficulties. Despite the mixed reviews, the 'Poker Face' singer expressed heartfelt gratitude in a note on X, where she acknowledged the warm reception and shared her deep connection with French music and culture.
In her note, Lady Gaga wrote, "I feel so completely grateful to have been asked to open the Paris @Olympics 2024 this year. I am also humbled to be asked by the Olympic organizing committee to sing such a special French song—a song to honor the French people and their tremendous history of art, music, and theatre. This song was sung by Zizi Jeanmaire, born in Paris, a French ballerina. She famously sang 'Mon Truc en Plumes' in 1961. The title means 'My Thing with Feathers.'"
She continued, "This is not the first time we’ve crossed paths. Zizi starred in Cole Porter’s musical 'Anything Goes,' which was my first jazz release. Although I am not a French artist, I have always felt a very special connection with French people and singing French music—I wanted nothing more than to create a performance that would warm the heart of France, celebrate French art and music, and on such a momentous occasion remind everyone of one of the most magical cities on earth—Paris. We rented pom-poms from Le Lido archive—a real French cabaret theater."
Lady Gaga also highlighted the collaborative effort behind her performance, stating, "We collaborated with Dior to create custom costumes, using naturally molted feathers. I studied French choreography that put a modern twist on a French classic. I rehearsed tirelessly to study a joyful French dance, brushing up on some old skills—I bet you didn’t know I used to dance at a 60’s French party on the Lower East Side when I was first starting out! I hope you love this performance as much as I do. And to everyone in France, thank you so much for welcoming me to your country to sing in honor of you—it’s a gift I’ll never forget! Congratulations to all the athletes who are competing in this year’s Olympic Games! It is my supreme honor to sing for you and cheer you on!! Watching the Olympic Games always makes me cry! Your talent is unimaginable. Let the games begin!"
Her message resonated with fans, many of whom appreciated her dedication and heartfelt connection to the performance, reinforcing the special bond she feels with France and its rich cultural heritage.
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