There is no doubt that Katy Perry is one of today's biggest pop stars. With her record breaking album "Teenage Dream," she was catapulted into pop glory.
Throughout her career she has always been one for inspirational anthems. From 2010's memorable "Firework" to 2013's mega-hit "Roar," she's spent years telling her fans to believe in themselves.
Now, she continues the trend with newly released, uplifting anthem, "Rise."
"Rise" would definitely be classified as a ballad. The music is a bit slower, and the focus is more toward the lyrics and Perry's vocals.
"I won't just survive, oh, you will see me thrive, Can't write my story, I'm beyond the archetype. I won't just conform, no matter how you shake my core."
The song was released this past Thursday night by surprise. According to Perry, it's something that "has been brewing inside me for years and has now come to the surface." The song, however, is not for an upcoming album, but is to be used for the 2016 Rio Olympics.
In the video, Olympic athletes from all over the world are shown competing. The song serves as the perfect choice due to the inspiring themes about not giving up or letting people put you down.
"When you think the final nail is in; think again. Don't be surprised, I will still rise."
While listening to the song though, you can't help but think there is more to the message. In the second verse she sings. "I must stay conscious, through the menace and chaos."
The purpose of "Rise" is deeper than to inspire oneself. It's to unite as whole and rise up.
Before releasing the video, Perry sent a message to the Today Show saying, "I was inspired to finish it now rather than save it for album because of the overall mood of the world today. Now more than ever, there is a need for our world to unite. I know that together we can rise above the fear, in our country and around the world. And I can't think of a better example coming up than the Olympic athletes as they gather together in Rio; with their strength and fearlessness to remind us how we all can come together with the result to be the best we can be."
There couldn't have been better timing for Perry to release the song with Olympics not too far away, and with all of the craziness happening in the world.
The song is currently perched at the top of the iTunes charts, soon to become Perry's next big hit. Sure, some will say that the song may not be her best among her inspirational anthems, but it really is needed at a time like this. My only wish is that everyone around the world is hearing it and sharing it to spread hope and love.
"Rise" is available on iTunes and can be streamed exclusively on Apple Music.
