It was a sea of painted faces, leather jackets and blue hair as CultureMap pulled up to the Toyota Center Thursday to experience life in the Lady Gaga tent city. Later, a plane flew overhead, apparently showing opposition to the pop superstar's ultra vocal support of gay rights.
The airplane banner — tweeted about by Gaga fans — reportedly read "NOT Born This Way" a play off of Gaga's song celebrating acceptance titled "Born This Way." Most Gaga fans were in a joyful mood however.
While the most diehard of diehard fans camped out earlier in the week to gain access to the infamous "Monster Pit" — Gaga's VIP section next to the stage — those with general admission had been lining up since dawn Thursday for a chance to secure their spot on the floor right as the doors opened for the night show.
Though the early risers were starting to look a little sleepy during the afternoon visit, the camaraderie was palpable as complete strangers held spots for each other during food runs and bathroom breaks.
Watch the video above for a look inside Gaga fandom.
Lady Gaga fans came out in droves and didn't let anything bother them.
Photo by Joel Luks
Lady Gaga fans came out in droves and didn't let anything bother them.
It looks like Houston will be home to a new reality series about successful women living their best life and trying not to get into huge fights with each other during brunch.
Next month, Oprah Winfrey’s OWN channel will premiere Heart & Hustle: Houston, where a quintet of upwardly mobile, African American women thrive in Texas’ largest city.
“Heart & Hustle: Houston brings a fresh, dynamic perspective — one that centers Black women not just in conflict, but in community, healing, and growth,” OWN President Tina Perry said in a press release. “It’s a powerful look at ambition, resilience, and the bonds that hold friendships together, even through life’s toughest moments.”
Let’s break down the ladies who’ll be giving us the heart and the hustle:
Alaina Saulsberry, 38 “H-Town’s Glam Girl” Known for her beauty brand Color du Jour, Saulsberry is touted as a mentor who balances work with family commitments. After 15 years of marriage, the relationship is in a rough patch. Will she choose personal happiness or preserving stability for her two children?
Courtesy of OWN Network
Rosea Pichardo.
Chloe Cook, 44 “The Straight Shooter” Known as “THE premiere event planner of Houston,” Cook took a step back from the event business to take care of her young daughters after the tragic loss of her husband. However, the gal is getting her groove back thanks to her recent relationship with much younger man Jordan. Unfortunately, her eldest son Neiko (who is only three years younger than Jordan) isn’t feeling the whole May-December thing. Can Chloe balance being a mother and a MILF?
La’Torria Lemon, 36 “The Hopeless Romantic” The head of Lemon-Lime Light Media, entrepreneur/philanthropist Lemon has been called “a force in the entertainment, hospitality, and PR industry.” She’s a charming personality, but don’t get it twisted: She’s ready to bring the claws out whenever someone comes for her. After losing her father, Lemon is on the hunt for the love of her life, so she can settle down and have some kids. Can she find a good man just like dear old dad?
LeBrina Jackson, 35 “The Southern Belle” Full of “passion, drive, and compassion,” elite spa owner Jackson is one of the few Black women in the spa and wellness game. The resident caregiver of the group, Jackson is there for her family, friends, customers, etc. She uses her past (specifically, her family’s history) to break generational curses and build a better tomorrow for her peoples. Can she still take care of others, while also finding some time to take care of herself?
Muneera Page, 43 “Mrs. Perfect” Meet the big, bad momma of the crew: a devout wife, mother of four daughters (including a set of twins), and career woman whose journey “embodies the power of faith, resilience, and boundless ambition.” With a two-decade career as an electrical engineer in the oil and gas industry, Page has taken a career 180 and pivoted to content creation. Can she live a life of meaning, purpose and transformative impact, while also inspiring folks around the world?
Roe Pichardo, 39 “Nightlife Queen” Finally, we have the party girl. Pichardo is an entrepreneur, hospitality innovator, and cultural curator who’s “redefining the art of connection.” She’s got a rep as a major player in the restaurant and nightlife world (Editor’s note: She appeared on CultureMap’s “What’s Eric Eating” podcast during her time as the general manager of James Harden’s restaurant Thirteen). Despite staying tough in a male-dominated industry, those close to her know she’s a sweet, loving soul. Can she still take her businesses to the next level, while also learning to be more vulnerable around her loved ones?
These questions and more will be answered when Heart & Hustle: Houston premieres on OWN on Saturday, August 2, at 8 pm.
