Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta, known professionally as
Lady Gaga, is an American singer, songwriter and actress. She is known for reinventing her image and showcasing versatility in entertainment. Gaga started performing as a teenager by singing at open mic nights and acting in school plays. She studied Collaborative Arts Project 21 before leaving to pursue a music career. After a contract cancellation by Def Jam Recordings, Gaga worked as a songwriter for Sony/ATV Music Publishing. In 2007, she signed with Interscope Records and KonLive Distribution. Her breakthrough came the following year with her debut studio album,
The Fame, and its singles "Just Dance" and "Poker Face". The album was later reissued along with
The Fame Monster (2009), which yielded the successful singles "Bad Romance", "Alejandro" and "Telephone".