Large crowds have flocked to Rio de Janeiro's Copacabana beach for a highly anticipated free concert by Lady Gaga. Scheduled for Saturday night, the event is expected to draw around 1.6 million attendees, according to Brazilian authorities. This grand performance is part of an initiative to give Rio's economy a boost, with projections estimating a potential gain of $100 million.
The concert celebrates Gaga's eighth album, Mayhem, featuring hit tracks like "Abracadabra" and "Die With a Smile." Eager fans, affectionately known as "Little Monsters," began lining up early in the day to secure their spot.
In preparation for the massive turnout, officials have implemented extensive security measures. Five thousand police officers are on duty, and attendees will pass through metal detectors, with drones and facial recognition technology aiding in safety protocols.
This isn't the first time Rio has hosted a free concert of this magnitude. Madonna performed on Copacabana beach in May 2024, also funded by the city.
Fans from all over Brazil have traveled to attend, with Luan Messias, 28, sharing his excitement after a long journey from Itanhaem. “I can't wait for her to sing Abracadabra; it's such a danceable track,” he expressed. Alisha Duarte, 22, who queued up early, echoed similar sentiments, saying, “Lady Gaga is worth it! It’s going to be crowded, but we’ll make it.”
The enthusiasm for the concert stems from Gaga's ability to connect with her fans, as Paulo Oliveira noted, "She tells us we can be ourselves and that being different is cool." Concert-goer Lai Borges shared what she anticipates, stating, “It’s going to be an emotional show, and I’ll probably cry a lot.”
With excitement at fever pitch, Rio's Copacabana beach is set to become the place to be for an unforgettable night filled with music and community spirit.
