Lady Gaga is one of the biggest names in music, known for her powerful voice, bold fashion choices, and incredible talent. But despite her fame, there are still some lesser-known facts about her life and career that may surprise you. From her early years to her personal inspirations, here are five hidden details about Lady Gaga that you probably didn’t know.

1. She Was Born Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta

Before she became the global superstar we know as Lady Gaga, she was born Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta on March 28, 1986, in New York City. While many people associate her with the name “Lady Gaga,” her real name is a reflection of her Italian heritage. She later adopted the stage name “Lady Gaga” after the famous Queen song “Radio Ga Ga”—a name that would go on to define her unique persona.

2. She Started Playing Piano at Age 4

Lady Gaga’s musical talents started at a very young age. She began playing the piano when she was just four years old and was already composing her own music by the age of 13. Her classical music training helped shape her incredible vocal range and her ability to experiment with different genres throughout her career. It’s clear that music was her calling from an early age.

3. She Was Rejected by a Major Record Label Early On

Before Lady Gaga became a household name, she faced rejection in the music industry. She was dropped from a record label early in her career, which could have been a major setback. However, Lady Gaga didn’t give up. Instead, she continued to write music, perform, and build a fanbase. Her big break came when producer RedOne discovered her and helped her create hits like “Just Dance” and “Poker Face,” which launched her to stardom.

4. She Has a Strong Connection to Fashion

Lady Gaga is known for her wild and creative fashion choices, but her love for fashion goes beyond just wearing extravagant outfits. She has a deep connection to the fashion world and has worked closely with designers like Alexander McQueen, Donatella Versace, and Marc Jacobs. Lady Gaga uses fashion as a form of self-expression, and many of her most iconic outfits, such as the meat dress at the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards, have become part of her artistic statement.

5. She’s an Advocate for Mental Health and LGBTQ+ Rights

Beyond her music and fashion, Lady Gaga is also a passionate advocate for social causes. She’s been very open about her struggles with mental health, including dealing with depression and anxiety, and she works to break the stigma surrounding mental illness. Additionally, Lady Gaga is a strong supporter of the LGBTQ+ community. She founded the Born This Way Foundation, which focuses on empowering young people, promoting mental wellness, and supporting LGBTQ+ rights.

Lady Gaga is much more than just a pop star—she’s a talented musician, a fearless fashion icon, and an advocate for social change. These hidden details about her life and career show just how hard she worked to get where she is today and how deeply she cares about the causes she supports. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering her music, there’s always something new to learn about the incredible woman behind the persona.