Why Katy Perry's comeback has gone so wrong

Katy Perry's seventh album, 143, has faced significant challenges since its release, with its lead single, Woman's World, peaking at number 63 on the Billboard Hot 100. The follow-up single, Lifetimes, performed slightly better, reaching number 15 on the Billboard Bubbling Under Hot 100. The media has scrutinized Perry's music, questioning why it has not resonated with audiences as her previous work did. Perry's decision to work without producer Dr. Luke, who was instrumental in her earlier successes, has raised eyebrows. Although she has not publicly explained her choice, it is believed to be linked to the controversy surrounding Dr. Luke and Kesha, who accused him of abuse. Perry's involvement with Dr. Luke has been criticized, especially given the context of her new music focusing on female empowerment. The accompanying music video for Woman's World has also drawn criticism, with some perceiving it as catering to the male gaze. This has led to questions about Perry's ability to adapt to the current cultural landscape, which is more fragmented than in the past. Additionally, Perry's age, now 39, may be influencing public perception, as female artists over 35 often face ageism and misogyny. Despite these challenges, there is hope that Perry can evolve her music and message to better connect with audiences in the future.