Katy Perry was one of the planet’s biggest pop celebs – but her new album has been beset by controversy and failed tracks. Here’s why she’s struggled – and what it says about music today.
Katy Perry, once one of pop’s biggest stars, is struggling with the release of her seventh album, 143.
Despite her past dominance of the charts, the singles from this new project have failed to resonate with listeners, raising questions about her place in today’s rapidly changing music industry.
Disappointing Chart Performance
The album’s lead single, Woman’s World, was intended to be a feminist anthem. However, it stalled at #63 on the Billboard Hot 100 and failed to make a significant impact in the UK, charting at #65.
The follow-up single, Lifetimes, fared even worse, peaking at #15 on the Billboard Bubbling Under Hot 100—a significant fall from Perry’s previous hits like Roar and Firework.
This lackluster performance is surprising given her past success, where she had six diamond-certified singles, second only to Rihanna among female artists.
Why Is 143 Struggling?
One of the reasons Perry’s new music isn’t connecting could be her difficulty in adapting to the current pop landscape.
Today’s audiences, especially younger listeners, are more drawn to personal storytelling and vulnerability, as seen with artists like Billie Eilish and Olivia Rodrigo.
In contrast, Perry’s new singles feel like attempts to replicate her past hits rather than reflecting the current music trends. Her large-scale anthems might not have the same appeal in an era that values intimacy and authenticity.
The Challenge of Staying Relevant
The rise of social media and streaming has also shifted the music industry, with viral moments on platforms like TikTok often dictating success. Perry’s traditional promotional strategies may be less effective in this context, especially as younger artists are finding new ways to break through.
While Perry’s stumble with 143 is notable, her resilience as an artist shouldn’t be underestimated. To regain her status as a pop icon, she may need to evolve her sound and embrace today’s trends, proving that reinvention is key to longevity in pop music.