Lady Gaga Condemns Ageism in Pop Music Industry at 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards
American pop icon Lady Gaga has taken a bold stand against ageism in the music industry, calling out the absurdity of labeling women in their late 30s as "old" for pop stars. The 38-year-old singer made her powerful statement while receiving the Innovator Award at the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on Monday, March 17, 2025.
Reflecting on the honor, Gaga said, “I don’t know totally how to think about this because winning an award honouring my entire career at 38 years old is a hard thing to get my head around.”
Addressing the stigma surrounding age in the music industry, she added, “The world might consider a woman in her late 30’s old for a pop star, which is insane, but I promise you I’m just getting warmed up.”
Opinion: Ageism in Music — Breaking The Chains of Stereotype
Lady Gaga’s words strike a chord in an industry where youthfulness is often prized over talent and artistry. For decades, female musicians have battled against a culture that subtly (and sometimes overtly) suggests their prime ends when they hit their mid-30s. Gaga’s statement, however, is a testament to the evolving mindset that talent, creativity, and innovation aren’t confined by age.
More artists are beginning to challenge these outdated perceptions, proving that artistry only grows richer with experience. As Gaga declared, she is just getting warmed up—a reminder that greatness continues to unfold even when the world tries to box it within age limits.
In other highlights from the night, the maiden World Artist Of The Year Award saw South Africa’s Tyla emerge victorious over heavyweights like Nigerian superstars Burna Boy and Tems. While some fans expressed disappointment over the loss, others celebrated Tyla’s achievement, marking it as a sign of Africa’s continuously growing influence in the global music scene.
Lady Gaga’s words and Tyla’s success both send a clear message: Talent and excellence can’t be defined by age, gender, or even nationality. It’s about impact, creativity, and boldness to defy expectations.
