What's at Stake: Pretty much nothing. The Fame initially bowed at #4 and then stayed there for a year, making it the highest selling album of the year. Since this isn't technically a new album, just a reissue, industry analysts will label a debut north of #5 as a success. The sales of her new singles from the reissue matter much more. For Her: Gaga's fan base and four #1 radio hits have transformed her into the only artist who released a debut album this decade likely to remain a household name in 2035. Her image as an envelope pushing, avant-garde, pop celeb makes any scandal seem like a publicity stunt to please her fans. Combine that with the great sales of "Bad Romance," her "one-hour music video" Gossip Girl episode, the sold out dates on her Monster Ball Tour 2009, the multiple collector's editions, her humbleness, her fans rapid purchase of anything gaga, and the positive buzz surrounding the cover and she could have a #1 album. Her "love for her fans" makes every obvious corporate attempt to get cash (ten special editions, really, Gaga?) seem like a gift from the avant pop Goddess to us. It's technically a reissue, but considering it contains eight new tracks it's pretty much a new concept record people are DYING to hear.
Against Her: It's still a reissue. Considering the economy, many people will just download the 8 new songs from itunes.
Where She's Likely to Land: Regardless, she still wins. Gaga, like Madonna, is about the singles, not the album. Expect her to steal the top spot or second place. Either way, Gaga doesn't loose. Beware, Shakira and RiRi, beware.
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