Katy Perry has officially returned to pop music with her new single “Woman’s World,” marking her first release since leaving American Idol as a judge. However, this comeback has been met with mixed reactions, with some listeners feeling that Perry’s latest work clings to a bygone era of pop, raising questions about its relevance in today’s music landscape.
During her peak between 2008 and 2013, Perry dominated the charts, achieving nine No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 hits and becoming one of pop’s most iconic voices with anthems like “I Kissed a Girl,” “California Gurls,” “Firework,” and “Roar.” Fans and critics alike felt that “Woman’s World,” with its empowering themes, hearkens back to those days. However, that nostalgic familiarity might also be working against her, as some argue it lacks the fresh sound and narrative today’s audiences crave.
Perry’s decision to release “Woman’s World” follows her departure from American Idol after seven seasons, during which she hinted at her desire to reconnect with her musical roots and bring new energy to her work. In the song’s music video, Perry sports bedazzled power tools, references feminist icons, and even revives Rosie the Riveter imagery, adding a surreal twist as she shifts from one outlandish look to another, which some fans think might signal a new era in her career.
But as Perry embraces nostalgia, reinvention has been challenging for her. Previous attempts with albums like Witness (2017) and Smile (2020) brought unique styles but failed to achieve the widespread success of her earlier hits. “Woman’s World” is now set to lead her upcoming album 143, due out September 20, and to that end, she’s returned to the long dark hair and polished pop production that originally brought her fame. Yet, the song’s familiar themes have sparked debate: while some fans celebrate her return, others question if she’s simply recycling past formulas.
The song’s release has also drawn attention for another reason: Perry’s collaboration with Dr. Luke, a producer she previously worked with on her 2013 album Prism, but whose association has since been controversial. Dr. Luke’s legal battle with pop singer Kesha over allegations of abuse has remained a divisive issue in the industry. Although Dr. Luke denies the accusations and settled the defamation case, many fans expressed disappointment with Perry’s decision to partner with him. Critics point out the irony of a feminist anthem produced by a figure whose past has been marred by legal and ethical disputes, which some see as undermining the song’s message.
Katy Perry’s attempts to rekindle her pop career by drawing on elements that once made her successful have been met with both excitement and skepticism. With 143 poised for release, Perry may be hoping to spark a resurgence — but as pop music has evolved, only time will tell if her return will resonate with today’s audience or if her style now feels like a relic of an earlier era in pop music.
Leave feedback about this