How Katy Perry became the Hot and Cold popstar

Katy Perry, the well-known American pop singer, has recently found herself in the spotlight for reasons that are less than flattering. After weeks of receiving harsh criticism online, she described herself as a 'human Piñata,' a colorful metaphor that reflects the emotional toll of the backlash she has faced. This comes as she embarks on her world tour, which kicked off in Mexico on April 23. Despite her past successes, including chart-topping hits and a memorable Super Bowl performance, Perry is now facing a wave of mockery regarding her dance moves and overall performances. Once celebrated for her catchy tunes about love and relationships, it seems that the pop star is now experiencing a chilly reception from fans and critics alike. Katy has attributed some of this negativity to what she calls an 'unhinged and unhealed' internet culture. However, is social media the sole culprit behind her current struggles? Music journalist Michael Cragg, who authored the book Reach for the Stars, suggests that Katy Perry is caught in a difficult position within the ever-evolving landscape of pop culture. He argues that her persona, which was solidified in the 2010s as playful and whimsical, has not adapted to the changing tastes of today's music fans. Her second album, Teenage Dream, was a monumental success, producing five number one singles and matching a record previously held by Michael Jackson. However, since then, Perry has struggled to replicate that level of success. After her recent spaceflight, she expressed feelings of being 'super connected to life' and 'so connected to love. ' Yet, her latest single, Woman's World, which was intended to be an anthem of female empowerment, has been criticized for its lack of depth. Additionally, some fans were disappointed to learn that the song was produced by Dr. Luke, a figure who has faced serious allegations in the past. This association may have contributed to the song's failure to make a significant impact on the charts, as it barely scraped into the top 50 in the US and only reached number 47 in the UK. Katy's attempts to reinvent herself have not been particularly successful. In 2017, she launched her 'purposeful pop' era with the album Witness, which aimed to address social issues. However, the lead single, Chained to the Rhythm, which boldly critiqued mindless pop culture, was overshadowed by another track, Bon Appetit, which many viewed as objectifying. The landscape of female pop stardom has shifted dramatically, with new artists like Chappell Roan, Sabrina Carpenter, and Charli XCX rising to prominence. These artists have found success by being authentic and relatable, contrasting with Perry's struggle to connect with a new generation of fans. Katy has expressed a desire to distance herself from her pop persona, stating, 'I created this character called Katy Perry. I didn't want to be Katheryn Hudson. It was too scary. ' While her recent Las Vegas residency showcased her vibrant and fantastical image, it has not resonated with younger audiences. Some critics argue that her recent endeavors come off as cringeworthy, especially when juxtaposed with serious global issues like war and climate change. Despite the backlash, Katy Perry still has a dedicated fan base. Supporters have rallied around her, with one group even funding a digital billboard in New York's Times Square to express their love and admiration. The message read, 'We're so proud of you and your magical journey and we love you to the moon and back. ' This gesture highlights the loyalty of her fans, who continue to appreciate her work despite the negativity she faces. However, the internet can be a harsh environment, and many believe that celebrities like Katy are increasingly vulnerable to online abuse. Some fans worry about the impact of negative comments on her mental health and well-being, especially concerning her family. Additionally, there are discussions about the pervasive misogyny in the industry, with some commentators noting that ambitious and visible women like Perry often face harsher scrutiny than their male counterparts. Looking ahead, Michael Cragg suggests that a successful single could help Katy regain some of her lost popularity. While it may not bring her back to the heights of her earlier career, it could provide her with the stability she needs to navigate the current music landscape.