Has Lady Gaga surpassed the current stars of today?
Short answer: Right now? Yes.
Long answer: Lady Gaga certainly has a unique approach in many aspects:
- Unique inspiration (Rilke, Bauhaus, Warhol, Bowie, Boy George, Led Zeppelin, Grace Jones etc.)
- Unprecedented utilization of the Internet results in a much more personal relationship with fans
- Fanbase has a nickname, there is a feeling of belonging somewhere and group solidarity
- Caters to social minorities ('freaks', outcasts, homosexuals)
- Live shows are more than a performance, she talks about her life, her regrets and also constantly reminds of the importance and appreciation of the fanbase.
=> These factors cause her to be an Internet phenomenon on social networking websites like Facebook, Twitter and also Youtube which, in turn, raises an incredible amount of awareness that translates into sales and sold out arenas.
Beyonce has been on a break, so the question in relation to that is hard to answer. She is earning more money through business ventures, which does not necessarily translate into 'cultural impact'.
We will have to see next year, with Britney, Gaga and Beyonce launching their albums in a similar timeframe.
@ the thought of people thinking GaGa eclipsed Bey in anything. Just... wow. 
