Katy Perry’s uneven course
‘Witness’ rollout has been filled with ups and a lot of downs
Like whipped cream spurting from a red-and-white-nozzled bra, Katy Perry’s latest era is a messy, monumental misfire. Ever since I Kissed a Girl planted its cherry-Chapstick lips on top-40 radio in 2008, Perry has skillfully staked her claim atop the pop throne: scoring record numbers of No. 1 singles, Twitter followers and Super Bowl halftime show viewers, all with a cheekily provocative and winningly self-deprecating persona that’s endeared her to KatyCats of all ages.
But as much as there is to admire, there has been something weirdly off about Perry’s monthslong rollout for fifth album Witness (out Friday). From bad singles to bizarre interviews, we break down where pop’s candy-coated queen went astray ... and what she could do to course-correct.
FEB. 9
Perry’s latest phase gets off to a promising start when she announces this is her era of “purposeful pop,” after the release of her socially conscious first single, Chained to the Rhythm. The outspoken Hillary Clinton supporter appears to be moving in an refreshingly political direction that stands apart from her pop peers.
FEB. 12
It’s unfortunate, then, that she kicks off this newly enlightened phase with an apparent potshot at Britney Spears, telling Ryan Seacrest on the Grammys red carpet that she is doing “fantastic. I haven’t shaved my head yet.”
FEB 28
Despite the second coming of Perry’s Left Shark dancer — in the form of a toppling house during her Brit Awards performance — Chained quickly plummets from the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart after debuting at No. 4.
MARCH 2
Miley, what’s good? Perry debuts a platinum-blond pixie cut that has fans doing a double-take.
APRIL 28
Rather than follow Chained with another “woke pop” single, Perry reaches into her bag of tired innuendos and pulls out the limply sexual Bon Appétit, featuring Migos. Perry’s LGBTQ fan base calls her out for collaborating with the group, who have a history of homophobic statements. Others accuse her of cultural appropriation.
MAY 2
Days before Bon Appétit’s eerie video is released, Perry cohosts the Met Gala. She makes numerous worst-dressed lists in her veiled scarlet ensemble — and shameless album plug!
MAY 19
Perhaps sensing Bon Appétit’s swift descent from the charts (now at No. 96 on the Hot 100, after peaking at No. 59), Perry releases yet another single on the eve of her Saturday Night Live performance: Swish Swish featuring Nicki Minaj. Many speculate that the uninspired dance track — a self-proclaimed “anthem” against bullies — is a diss track against her pop rival Taylor Swift.
MAY 20
Perry’s awkward dancing on SNL is roasted on Twitter, with many users once again denouncing her for cultural appropriation and saying that the teenage “Backpack Kid” dancer stole the show.
SO WHAT NOW?
Explaining Witness’ album cover, which depicts a “third eye” in her mouth, the star told Jimmy Fallon that traveling across the globe “reeducated my mind and changed my perspective on so much.” Let’s hope more of this maturity comes through her music, which has always been best when Perry is at her most vulnerable. And while we hope she remains as colorful and fun-loving as ever, Perry could stand to rein in the more attention-grabbing antics if she truly wants to be witnessed.