Lady Gaga’s surprise new music video for “Abracadabra” draws significant inspiration from her 2010 “Alejandro” video, while also reimagining her iconic fashion looks from the past. The video, which was unveiled during a commercial break at the Grammys, marks the third single from her upcoming album Mayhem. Fans were instantly captivated by the familiar dark-pop allure, reminiscent of the magic Gaga first cast in “Alejandro” over a decade ago.
The video kicks off with Mayhem—the eerie character from Gaga’s “Disease” music video—dressed in a striking blood-red outfit, standing dominantly over Gaga and a group of dancers clad in white. The camera’s focus on Mayhem’s shoulder brings to mind the opening shot of the “Alejandro” video, where Gaga, seated on a throne, watches male soldiers perform beneath her.
Describing the narrative of the video, Gaga explained to Elle that it portrays a “dance battle led by light and dark sides” within her own psyche. While “Abracadabra” shares thematic echoes with “Disease,” exploring Gaga’s internal struggles, it differs from the narrative in “Alejandro.” Both videos explore power dynamics, but “Alejandro” incorporates themes of fascism and homoeroticism, whereas “Abracadabra” focuses on resilience and community.
The visual language of “Abracadabra” draws clear parallels to “Alejandro” in its color palette of red, black, and white, the choreography (including scenes where dancers lift Gaga into the air), and religious imagery, such as crosses that turn upside down, mirroring similar symbols in “Alejandro.”
The new video also echoes the queer themes of “Alejandro.” In 2010, Gaga’s provocative portrayal of military homoeroticism was a commentary on the U.S. military’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. Now, “Abracadabra” centers queer artists in response to today’s political climate, particularly at a time when LGBTQ+ rights and resources are under threat. The video features queer ballroom artists like Honey Balenciaga, with Gaga emphasizing the collective power and sense of community that made the video come to life.
Reflecting on the creative process, Gaga noted that she felt a deep connection with her dancers and choreographer Parris Goebel, sharing that the experience felt like a family effort aimed at producing something authentic. “It’s wild to me watching the video now, as it was made months ago about resilience, but it’s arriving at a time when we need it most,” she told Elle.
In terms of costuming, Gaga embraced sustainability by reusing pieces from her personal wardrobe archive and sourcing eco-friendly materials. The main white cape featured in the video was crafted from old wedding dresses, and the dancers’ outfits were made from deadstock fabric—unused materials sitting in warehouses for years. Gaga also repurposed vintage costumes from her past music videos. “We were conscious not to overproduce, creating something that was made with love and community in mind,” she said.
In a previous interview, Gaga shared that her upcoming album would embrace darker themes. “I want all the music to be a surprise, as much as I can,” she said with a laugh, hinting at the darker undertones of Mayhem. The full album is set for release on March 7. Watch the “Abracadabra” music video now.
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