The Oscar and Grammy-winning star stunned fans around the world as he opened the Summer Olympics in Paris on Friday with an elaborate performance.
Olympic and Paralympic opening ceremony choreographer Maud le Pladec told Variety that Gaga’s surprise performance was pre-recorded “for safety reasons” when the crew knew it would be broadcast during a forecast of heavy rain.
“Unfortunately, it was the only performance we had to pre-record in the late afternoon,” said Le Pladec. “We were monitoring the weather up to the minute and when it became clear that it was going to rain, the crew agreed that it was too dangerous for the artists.”
Despite taking precautions, the Rain on Me singer still suffered a series of mishaps during her performance. In addition to the technical difficulties affecting her voice, one of Gaga’s backup dancers slipped and fell. The dancer fell to the ground and lay there for several seconds before getting up to continue performing. However, Lady Gaga ‘s performance still received a lot of praise.
“I feel incredibly honored to have been invited by the Olympic Organizing Committee to sing a special song, in honor of the French people and their wonderful history of art, music, and theater,” she wrote. “Although I am not a French artist, I have always felt a very special connection to the French people. When singing French music, I want nothing more than to create a performance that will warm the hearts of France, celebrate French art and music, and remind people of Paris – one of the most magical cities on earth.”
The singer also shared: “I hope you love this performance as much as I do. Thank you so much for welcoming me to your country.”