Lady Gaga says whiskey kept her nerves at bay when she began working with Tony Bennett.
The Born This Way singer collaborated with the jazz legend on new album Cheek to Cheek.
And although the chemistry between them was instant, their initial recording sessions had the pop star racked with nerves.
"The second we were in the studio together, it was so magical. We were bouncing improvisation off each other and we were laughing. I was keeping a whiskey under my stool because I was very nervous to be around him," she told E! News.
"And then, gradually, we became greater and greater friends. And I think because of that, our singing became more and more honest and more and more authentic."
The singer also credits Tony with reviving her love of performing. Working with the jazz legend has also drastically altered the way she carries herself.
"He's the reason that I'm here today, that I'm still making music, that I'm still excited to make music.
"Even singing with Tony now, going back on tour, it has completely changed the way I am on stage. It actually revived something in me that I haven't felt in a few years. It's a certain resilience, a certain confidence,” she explained.
One of the greatest joys to come out of their relationship has been the pride she’s felt from her family.
"As an Italian-American woman, the biggest things for us in our lives is making our dads proud, and my father has never been more proud of me than he is right now,” she said.
The pair will share the stage later this year at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas on New Year’s Eve.
