Lana Del Rey

By the time Lana Del Rey performed "Video Games" live on Saturday Night Live on January 14, 2012, she had just released her second studio album, "Born to Die," earlier that month. This album marked a significant milestone in her career, showcasing her distinctive style that blends melancholic themes with cinematic and nostalgic aesthetics. The live performance itself took place during a period when she was garnering widespread attention and scrutiny in the music industry, with "Born to Die" eventually becoming her breakout record. Notably, "Video Games" was already gaining traction as a defining single for her, illustrating her unique blend of pop and indie influences. The appearance on SNL was critical in establishing her as a mainstream artist, despite initial mixed reviews, and the performance is often remembered for its raw emotionality, further cementing her distinct persona in the music scene.

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