Entertainment

Lady Gaga Is Billboard's Woman Of The Year, Duh

by Courtney Lindley

Listen up, little monsters! Queen of pop Lady Gaga is Billboard's 2015 Woman of the Year. And I have to say, this is an honor that has been a long time coming. Though every year since Gaga hopped on to the scene in '08 has been big for her, this award feels especially deserving in 2015. The pop idol has consistently reinvented herself both musically and professionally since her debut single "Just Dance," but has especially hit her stride as of late. You could say the six-time Grammy-winning musician doesn't need any more recognition award-wise, but Lady Gaga has proven nothing if not that she's an ever-evolving force to be reckoned with.

Gaga will follow in the footsteps of Taylor Swift, who won the award last year (and in 2012), and Pink, who won in 2013. An event to celebrate Lady Gaga and other influential woman in music, appropriately titled "Women in Music," will air on the female-focused Lifetime network December 18. But before we get excited to see what that brings, let's look at all the reasons Lady Gaga truly deserves this. Because even if you're not a huge fan of her, I think we can all agree one thing: This was a big, influential year for the pop star.

1. Her Performance At The Oscars Was Perfect

Seriously, how beautiful was Gaga's Sound of Music tribute? In celebration of the film's 50th anniversary this year, Gaga gave a truly unforgettable performance.

2. She's A Spokesperson For Sexual Assault

Gaga's "Til it Happens to You" video couldn't have been more relevant and important. It was a brave video to put out into the world, and it opened up a necessary dialogue about rape culture on college campuses.

3. She's Empowering Youths

The "Born This Way Foundation" aims to provide support and empowerment of young people, and hopes to build a "kinder and braver world."

4. She Co-Headlined A Tour With Tony Bennett

If someone told me five years ago that Gaga would be touring with 88-year-old legend Tony Bennett, I wouldn't have believed them for a second. Yet here we are. The two just concluded an epic, round-the-country tour.

5. She's About To Be A TV Star

Gaga's acting debut arrives in the upcoming fifth season of FX's American Horror Story. If the teasers and promos are any indication, her performance is going to be nothing short of legendary.

Liz Gately, executive vice president of Lifetime, told Billboard, "Lady Gaga is an extraordinary artist, emblematic of the strength, courage and fortitude that Lifetime celebrates, and we are thrilled to offer our platform to recognize her in every way she deserves." Couldn't have said it better myself. Congratulations, Gaga.

Images: Giphy (5)