Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta ( ; born March 28, 1986), known professionally as
Lady Gaga, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress. She is known for her self-empowering messages, fashion, and live performances. Gaga initially performed in theater, appearing in high school plays, and studied at
CAP21 through
New York University's
Tisch School of the Arts before dropping out to pursue a musical career. After leaving a rock band, participating in the
Lower East Side's
avant garde performance art circuit, and being dropped from a contract with
Def Jam Recordings, Gaga worked as a songwriter for
Sony/ATV Music Publishing. There, recording artist
Akon noticed her vocal abilities and helped her to sign a joint deal with
Interscope Records and his own
KonLive Distribution.