Cover art for Disease

Disease

Lady gaga

Album: MAYHEM (Store Exclusive Version)

Stream
Credits:

Produced by: Andrew Watt, Lady Gaga, Cirkut & watt.

Writers: Henry Walter, Michael Polansky, Andrew Watt

Lyrics

(Ah)
(Ah)

There are no more tears to cry
I heard you beggin’ for life
Runnin’ out of medicine
You’re worse than you’ve ever been

(Ah-ah) Screamin’ for me, baby
(Ah-ah) Like you’re gonna die
(Ah-ah) Poison on the inside
I could be your antidote tonight
(Ah-ah) Screamin’ for me, baby
(Ah-ah) Like you’re gonna die
(Ah-ah) Poison on the inside
I could be your antidote tonight

I could play the doctor, I can cure your disease
If you were a sinner, I could make you believe
Lay you down like one, two, three
Eyes roll back in ecstasy
I can smell your sickness, I can cure ya (Cure)
Cure your disease

You’re so tortured when you sleep
Plagued with all your memories
You reach out, and no one’s there
Like a god without a prayer

(Ah-ah) Screamin’ for me, baby
(Ah-ah) Like you’re gonna die
(Ah-ah) Poison on the inside
I could be your antidote tonight
(Ah-ah) Screamin’ for me, baby
(Ah-ah) Like you’re gonna die
(Ah-ah) Poison on the inside
I could be your antidote tonight

I could play the doctor, I can cure your disease
If you were a sinner, I could make you believe
Lay you down like one, two, three
Eyes roll back in ecstasy
I can smell your sickness, I can cure ya (Cure)
Cure your disease

(Ah)
(Ah) Cure your disease
(Ah)
I can smell your sickness, I can cure ya

Bring me your desire, I can cure your disease
If you were a sinner, I could make you believe
Lay you down like one, two, three
Eyes roll back in ecstasy
I know all your secrets, I can cure ya, oh
Cure your disease

(Ah) Cure your disease
(Ah) Cure ya
(Ah)
I can smell your sickness, I can cure ya
I can cure your disease
(Ah) Cure your disease
(Ah) Cure your disease
(Ah) Ooh
(Ah) Ooh

Lyrics Insight

Background & Inspiration

Lady Gaga’s single “Disease”, released on October 25, 2024, is a standout track from her seventh studio album, Mayhem. Marking a return to her electropop and dance-pop roots, the song blends dark synths, pulsing beats, and haunting melodies, reminiscent of her The Fame Monster era.

Lyrically, “Disease” explores themes of love, obsession, and healing. Gaga portrays herself as both the affliction and the cure, singing, “I could play the doctor, I can cure your disease.” The track’s layered production, featuring grungy guitars and industrial beats, adds an emotional intensity that elevates its storytelling.

Critics praised “Disease” as a return to form, highlighting its infectious chorus and Gaga’s commanding vocal performance. Many compared it to “Bad Romance” in its dark yet danceable energy. The song’s music video, directed by Tanu Muino, further amplifies its eerie aesthetic, depicting Gaga battling multiple versions of herself.

Upon release, “Disease” climbed global charts, reinforcing Gaga’s ability to dominate pop music while pushing artistic boundaries. As one of the standout tracks from Mayhem, it proves that Lady Gaga remains an unstoppable force in the industry, blending innovation with nostalgia in a compelling way.

Interpretation & Fan Theories

Gaga’s Little Monsters have embraced “Disease” as a return to her classic sound, with many comparing it to Bad Romance and Scheiße due to its haunting yet infectious chorus. Fans speculate that the lyrics, “I could play the doctor, I can cure your disease”, reflect themes of toxic love, self-sacrifice, or even addiction. Some believe the track symbolizes Gaga’s struggles with fame and mental health, while others see it as a metaphor for obsessive relationships.

Critical Reception
Critics praised “Disease” for its bold production and emotional intensity. Pitchfork called it “a masterclass in dark pop,” while Rolling Stone highlighted its “industrial beats and hypnotic synths.” Many reviewers noted Gaga’s strong vocal delivery, likening the song’s energy to ARTPOP-era experimentation.

Interpretations
Some listeners interpret “Disease” as a social commentary on love as a powerful yet destructive force. Others believe it alludes to Gaga’s personal battles with pain and resilience, mirroring her advocacy for mental health awareness.