Gagged (EP)

Gagged is an extended play (EP) by American drag queen Violet Chachki—a stage persona of Paul Jason Dardo—that was digitally released on June 30, 2015, through Sidecar Records and Producer Entertainment Group. Violet, who won the seventh season of the reality competition series RuPaul's Drag Race, decided to record an EP to expand her brand and to have her own music to use for videos and live performances. She was inspired by her experience as a dominatrix's assistant, and by the branding and merchandising work of Drag Race host RuPaul. Violet wrote all of the songs on Gagged with Tomas Costanza and Ashley Gordon. Mötley Crüe drummer Tommy Lee co-wrote and co-produced a track for the EP.

The EP is a collection of dance-pop, glam rock, and queer punk tracks that discuss sex, confidence, gender expression, gender identity, and gender norms. Violet wanted her music to reflect her background of modeling and performing in nightclubs in Atlanta. Violet referred to the EP as industrial music and electronic dance music (EDM). Music critics identified the EP's BDSM influences, most notably in its title. Violet likened her vocals to talking and did not view herself as a singer.

Gagged received positive reviews from critics, who praised its production and overall approach, as well as Violet's personality. The EP was supported by two singles—"Bettie" and "Vanguard"—and both were promoted with music videos. Both songs and videos were highlighted in reviews. Critics considered "Bettie" one of the best songs by a RuPaul's Drag Race contestant, and Violet's aerial silk performance in the music video for "Vanguard" received praise. Gagged appeared on three US Billboard charts, peaking at number 11 on the Top Dance Albums chart, and at number 48 on the Independent Albums and the Heatseekers Albums charts.