Katy Perry’s attempt to make a grand comeback with her new single, “Woman’s World,” has not resonated as hoped, drawing widespread criticism and failing to impact the charts significantly.
The 39-year-old pop sensation, known for iconic hits such as “I Kissed a Girl” and “Teenage Dream,” had hoped to recapture her former glory with this summer release, but the response has been lukewarm.
The single, released in July, was intended as a female empowerment anthem, but critics argue it misses the mark. The song’s video features Perry in a provocative American flag bikini as Rosie the Riveter, surrounded by an all-female cast on a construction site.
However, it quickly descends into what some describe as unnecessary sexualization, with a slow-motion shot of Perry’s breasts undermining the supposed feminist message.
The video has been criticized for falling into old misogynistic tropes rather than advancing a genuine feminist agenda. A music video producer who requested anonymity criticized the approach, suggesting that the video seems like an attempt to capitalize on 2023’s “Barbie” and female empowerment trends but reinforces outdated stereotypes. Perry herself has described the video as “slapstick” and “sarcastic,” but this explanation has not convinced many viewers.
The lyrics of “Woman’s World,” inspired by Perry’s experience as a new mother, have also been panned. The song’s lines include “Sexy, confident / So intelligent / She is heaven-sent / So soft, so strong.” The repeated chorus, “It’s a woman’s world, and you’re lucky to be living in it,” have been criticized for its simplicity and lack of originality.
Critics argue that the song’s message of women’s empowerment feels like a relic of the “Girl Boss” era, lacking the depth and relevance needed to connect with today’s audience.
Perry’s attempt to address the criticism on Instagram, where she claimed the video was meant to be humorous and satirical, has not been effective. Explaining the joke has only made the song’s shortcomings more apparent.
Furthermore, the involvement of Dr Luke, the producer who has faced allegations of sexual abuse from singer Kesha, has complicated the song’s feminist message. Although Dr Luke has denied the allegations and has not been charged with any crime, his association with the track has drawn additional criticism.
“Woman’s World” debuted at No. 110 on Spotify’s US chart on July 11 and fell out of the top rankings the following day. This poor performance reflects a broader issue facing millennial stars struggling to maintain relevance in a rapidly evolving music industry.
The current music landscape is dominated by emerging artists who are seen as more authentic and relatable. Tastemakers point to Chappell Roan’s “Hot To Go!” and Charli XCX’s album “Brat” as examples of contemporary music that resonates with audiences through personal and innovative content. In contrast, Perry’s “Woman’s World” has been described as a generic power anthem that lacks individuality and relevance.
This situation reflects a broader trend where even established stars like Perry, Jennifer Lopez, and Justin Timberlake face difficulties adapting to the modern music industry’s demands. With new music released every week and shifting cultural trends, maintaining a successful career in today’s market is increasingly challenging.
Perry’s career, which once thrived on carefree pop escapism and youthful energy, now seems out of sync with the current musical climate, which values authenticity and fresh perspectives. The struggle to remain relevant highlights the difficulties many artists face in adapting to a continuously evolving industry.
