Fiona Nanna, ForeMedia News

4 minutes read. Updated 12:56AM GMT Wed, 24July, 2024

Katy Perry’s highly anticipated comeback single, “Woman’s World,” has faced a rocky start, struggling to make a significant impact on global music charts. The track, the lead single from her forthcoming album 143, has debuted at number 63 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and 47 on the UK Singles Chart. This underwhelming performance marks a challenging return for the pop sensation, whose last major release was her 2020 album Smile.

Critics and Social Media Response

The reception of “Woman’s World” has been less than favorable across various platforms. Critics have expressed disappointment in both the song and its accompanying music video. The Guardian’s review characterized the single as a “regressive, warmed-over” attempt, while The Cut noted that Perry seems to be “stuck in 2016.” Rolling Stone even questioned whether this might be “the worst comeback single of all time.”

In the song, Perry attempts to celebrate female empowerment with lyrics emphasizing women as “sisters, mothers, champions, winners, and superheroes,” alongside a catchy chorus proclaiming, “It’s a woman’s world, and you’re lucky to be living in it.” However, the accompanying video has been described as provocative and controversial, featuring Perry in a Rosie the Riveter-inspired outfit and various provocative scenes, including women using urinals and Perry being struck by an anvil.

Video Controversy and Critical Review

The video, which includes elements of satire and slapstick humor, has been critiqued for its execution and thematic approach. Laura Snapes of The Guardian observed that Perry’s attempts to reinvent herself fall short when compared to contemporary pop stars like Chappell Roan, Sabrina Carpenter, and Charli XCX. These artists are seen as defining the modern pop landscape with their inventive and self-aware styles, qualities that Perry once possessed but appears to have lost.

Additionally, Perry’s collaboration with producer Dr Luke has sparked controversy. Dr Luke, who has faced serious allegations from singer Kesha, has been criticized for his involvement in a track meant to promote female empowerment. Kesha had previously sued Dr Luke, alleging severe abuse, which has further complicated Perry’s public image.

Perry’s Past and Future

Despite these challenges, Perry’s career boasts impressive achievements. Her 2010 album Teenage Dream made history by becoming the first album by a female artist to produce five number one singles on the Billboard Hot 100. While her previous album, Smile, received mixed reviews, it successfully reached the top five in both the US and UK.

As Perry prepares for the release of her seventh studio album 143 in September, all eyes will be on whether she can rebound from this rocky start and reestablish herself at the forefront of the pop music industry.