Lady Gaga and Brian Johnson drive Carpool Karaoke on the “Highway To Hell”

In a captivating blend of rock and pop, Lady Gaga and AC/DC's Brian Johnson joined forces on Apple TV+'s “Carpool Karaoke Christmas” special. This exciting collaboration which premiered in December 2024 features the dynamic duo singing the rock classic “Highway to Hell,” taking the audience on a musical journey only conceivable in today's diverse entertainment spectrum. The special, hosted by Apple Music's Zane Lowe, a temporary stand-in for the usual host James Corden, was a seasonal treat that also included performances by Dua Lipa and Chappell Roan.

Lady Gaga's delight was palpable as Brian Johnson surprised her by jumping into the car mid-episode. Recalling her earlier connection to the iconic rock band, Gaga shared a fun anecdote about her time as a 17-year-old extra in AC/DC's “Stiff Upper Lip” video, which endeared her even more to Johnson. Her humor and passion matched Johnson's as they channeled their energy into a sensational rendition of the track from AC/DC's seminal 1979 “Highway to Hell” album. Their encounter was full of lighthearted moments, including Johnson taking his hands off the steering wheel while driving, causing Gaga to jokingly exclaim that they were all going to “die.”

The episode highlighted Lady Gaga’s charisma and her seamless ability to blend with different genres of music. It also brought to light her long-standing admiration for AC/DC, dating back to her teenage years, a nod that was certainly appreciated by long-time rock fans. Gaga reminisced about her youth, engaging Johnson with tales of her headbanging days and how the band’s music had influenced her artistic pathway. Johnson's charm and Gaga's infectious enthusiasm created an unforgettable harmony that resonated with viewers.

“Carpool Karaoke” is known for its ability to unite fans across genres, and this Christmas special was no exception. It showcased Lady Gaga's versatility as an artist able to hold her own alongside rock legends, reaffirming her status as a cultural chameleon. Her inclusion of a personal touch by sharing a clip of her late grandmother singing “Highway to Hell” further enriched the segment. It offered fans a glimpse into Gaga’s family and the influences that shaped her musical expression. This generational connection not only added emotional depth to the performance but also served to honor her grandmother's legacy of resilience and positivity.

The episode further emphasized the broader cultural appeal of AC/DC and its seamless integration into today's pop universe through such collaborations. Brian Johnson's involvement not only reiterated AC/DC's enduring legacy but also linked the old guard of rock with the contemporary flair of Lady Gaga. This unique pairing left audiences eagerly advocating for more such unexpected collaborations, illustrating the enchanting possibilities when different eras of music intersect.

For fans eager to catch a live glimpse of the legendary rock band, AC/DC announced their North American tour in 2025, marking their return to the stage after nearly a decade. This exciting news created a buzz amongst fans who have missed the electrifying experience the band consistently delivers. Meanwhile, the “Carpool Karaoke” Christmas special continues to be available for streaming on Apple TV+, inviting music lovers to relive this joyous and entertaining musical event.

This synergy of rock and pop not only celebrated the enduring impact of AC/DC's timeless hits but also underscored Lady Gaga’s remarkable ability to bridge music genres. The “Highway to Hell” duet will be remembered as a standout moment in the “Carpool Karaoke” series, an emblem of the transformative and unifying power of music. For those who missed the live action, the episode remains a must-watch, encapsulating the spirit of fun and shared passion that characterizes both the series and its featured artists.