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Poker Face (song)

"Poker Face" is a 2008 song by American singer Lady Gaga from her debut studio album, *The Fame*.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

"Poker Face" is a 2008 song by American singer Lady Gaga from her debut studio album, *The Fame*. Released as the album's second single, it became one of Gaga's breakthrough hits and a major international chart success. Gaga has said the song uses poker imagery as a metaphor for concealing sexual feelings and attraction.

Background and release

"Poker Face" was issued as the second single from *The Fame* in 2008. It was released through Streamline, KonLive, Cherrytree, and Interscope Records.

Composition and themes

The song is a pop track built around poker-themed imagery. Gaga has explained that the lyrics are about hiding her true feelings, particularly in relation to attraction and sexuality.

Commercial performance

The song became a major global success and is widely regarded as one of Gaga's signature songs. It reached number one in multiple countries and was among the best-selling singles of its era.

Cultural impact

"Poker Face" is commonly cited as one of the defining pop songs of the late 2000s. It contributed significantly to Lady Gaga's rise as an international recording artist.

Key facts

  • It is the second single from Lady Gaga's debut album, *The Fame*.
  • The song was released on September 23, 2008.
  • Lady Gaga and RedOne wrote the song, and RedOne produced it.
  • The lyrics use poker and gambling imagery as metaphors.
  • It became a major international hit and helped establish Gaga's mainstream popularity.
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Canadian context

"Poker Face" was a major hit in Canada and is part of the late-2000s pop catalogue that received heavy radio play and chart attention in Canadian markets.

Frequently asked questions

What is "Poker Face" by Lady Gaga about?
Lady Gaga has said the song uses poker imagery as a metaphor for hiding sexual feelings and attraction, especially while with a male partner.
When was "Poker Face" released?
It was released on September 23, 2008, as the second single from *The Fame*.
Who wrote and produced "Poker Face"?
Lady Gaga and RedOne wrote the song, and RedOne produced it.
What album is "Poker Face" on?
It appears on Lady Gaga's debut studio album, *The Fame*.
Why is the song called "Poker Face"?
The title refers to the poker expression of hiding emotion, which matches the song's theme of concealing true feelings.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poker_Face_(song)
    Supports: Release date, album, single position, labels
  2. Songfacts — https://www.songfacts.com/facts/lady-gaga/poker-face
    Supports: Lady Gaga's explanation of the song's meaning
  3. YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D5WJOZ1tQOI
    Supports: Lady Gaga discussing the song's meaning
  4. Bi.org — https://www.bi.org/en/bi-media/lady-gaga-poker-face/
    Supports: Song's chart success and award nominations