Richy Jackson is a creative powerhouse. As Lady Gaga’s longtime choreographer and visual director, his work has shifted pop culture. We chatted with him fresh off the Chromatica Ball – Gaga’s most elaborate work yet.
What was your first impression when meeting Lady Gaga?
My first impression when I met Lady Gaga were these words: Unique. Bold. Confident. Artist. And yessss!
What is your typical creative process when presented a new song to choreograph?
When I’m presented with a new song I listen to it continuously so that I can get in tune with the lyrics, the emotion of the song as well as the sounds and the production. It inspires the movement I create.
Your work with Gaga is always so iconic and emotionally affecting. I would imagine the expectation from fans, critics and the gay community at large (lol!) could be overwhelming at times. Does this ever stifle the creative process?
It doesn’t stifle the creative process. It enhances the experience. I like to take that expectation and turn it into energy and push my creative boundaries. I ultimately do this for the fans, critics and the LGBTQAI+ community. When I see their reaction at the shows it’s worth everything!
What’s your favorite number in the new tour?
My favorite number from the tour? To narrow that down. Omg. Babylon became my favorite. The song. Gaga and the dancers blazing the choreography and where it was performed in the set list is why.
How long was the rehearsal process for this tour?
We rehearsed a little over a month to create the Chromatica Ball.
Are there any songs you wished were in the set list that didn’t make the cut?
I loved this set list so much for this tour. Alejandro would have been a great song to add. But what we played was the best of the best songs.
Which number was the most challenging to create?
The most challenging number was Replay. Love Gaga’s voice. The instrumentation. It’s complexities. So I had to get it right. That song changed over and over until I found the dance. And when I found it, I jumped up and down from happiness.
What qualities do you look for when casting dancers?
The qualities I look for when casting dancers are people who not afraid to be who they are and express themselves thru dance. Humble hearts and minds. Ultimately I look for superstars!
What elements of black or gay culture do you draw inspiration from – and how does it feel then that your work becomes part of the gay and black lexicon? This must make you proud!
As a black man and a gay man I am inspired by my cultures inventiveness. Inventing new ways to dance, to move, to construct and wear fashion, to wear make-up, hairstyles and to ultimately showcase our unique selves.
Which other artist would you most like to choreograph in the future?
I’d like to work with any artist who wants to push the boundaries of artistry, creativity and desires to be great. Where are they?!
Any projects on the horizon you’d like to tease us with?
I can’t say. I keep everyone’s projects in the vaults. (Smile)
Follow Richy on instagram @richysquirrel
I have fallow your work through the years and dancing to your choreos and performing to your style and Gaga style have helped me become the dancer I am today… keep up with the good work 💪 I would love to be a part of your team and also become an inspiration to others