More than two million fans gathered on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro for a free concert by Lady Gaga, city officials confirmed, marking the largest performance of the pop icon’s career. The event, held on Saturday night, was funded by the city government as part of a broader initiative to boost tourism and revitalise Rio’s economy.
Authorities estimate the concert could generate up to $100 million (around £75 million) in local economic activity, with hotels, restaurants, and shops seeing a surge in demand. The concert also served as a significant promotional event for Lady Gaga’s eighth studio album, Mayhem, which includes newly released tracks Abracadabra and Die With a Smile. This marked her first performance in Brazil since 2012.
Fans, affectionately known as Gaga’s “Little Monsters,” began lining up early in the morning, with some even camping overnight to secure prime spots on the beach. The city implemented a comprehensive security operation to manage the massive crowd, with over 5,000 police officers deployed. Attendees passed through metal detectors, and authorities used drones and facial recognition cameras to monitor the event and ensure safety.
Lady Gaga’s concert follows a similar high-profile performance by Madonna in May 2024, which was also held on Copacabana Beach and funded by the city. Both events are part of a growing strategy by Rio’s officials to promote the city’s global image and stimulate economic recovery after the challenges of the pandemic.
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“You waited for me, you waited for more than 10 years for me,” an emotional Lady Gaga told the crowd as she waved a Brazilian flag.
“Brazil, I’m ready. I’m going to give it my all.”
The pop star performed in Brazil-themed costumes during some of her acts, with outfits inspired by the national football team. Fans sang along to her greatest hits, including Alejandro, Poker Face, and Abracadabra, creating an electric atmosphere as many waved rainbow-themed fans and watched on large screens along the beach.
Fans came from all across Brazil to witness the grand performance. Luan Messias, 28, said he spent the entire night travelling on a bus from Itanhaem in São Paulo state. Alisha Duarte, 22, told AFP she began queuing at 7:40 in the morning. “Lady Gaga is worth it! It’s going to get super crowded, but we’ll survive,” she said.
Paulo Oliveira, another fan, explained the excitement: “She tells us that we can be who we are, that we can be different and that being different is cool,” he told Reuters.
“It’s going to be an unforgettable show,” said concertgoer Lai Borges on her way in. “It’s going to be emotional, and I’m going to cry a lot,” she added.
As the concert drew to a close, Lady Gaga addressed the crowd: “We are monsters, and monsters never die,” before finishing with Bad Romance, perhaps her most iconic song.
