20 Best Songs About Katy Perry

Nina Hampson

Katy Perry is one of the most successful pop stars in the world. She has released countless number one singles and won accolades from fans and critics alike. Her music has been praised for its catchy melodies and upbeat rhythms. Here are 20 of the best songs written about Katy Perry.

By the way, if you’re interested in songs about katy perry, you may also be interested in songs about being flirty, songs about friday, songs about hotels, and songs about stages of life.

Dark Horse – Katy Perry

Katy Perry - Dark Horse ft. Juicy J

“Dark Horse” is a song by American singer Katy Perry. It was released on September 17, 2013 as the first single from her fourth studio album, Prism (2013). The song was written by Perry, Sarah Hudson, and Aaron Phillips, and produced by Dr. Luke, Max Martin, and Cirkut. It is a mid-tempo song with elements of trap music and features a minimalist production. The song’s lyrics are about an unpredictable love interest and contain various cultural references. Upon release, “Dark Horse” received mixed reviews from critics, who praised its production but criticized its lyrical content. The song became one of the best-selling singles worldwide in 2014. The music video for “Dark Horse” was directed by Matthew Cullen and released on February 20, 2014.

Harleys In Hawaii – Katy Perry

Katy Perry - Harleys In Hawaii (Official)

Katy Perry’s song “Harleys in Hawaii” is a catchy pop tune with tropical undertones that talks about the singer’s find of new love. The lyrics tell the story of Perry falling for a guy who likes to ride motorcycles and lives in Hawaii. The song reflects on the happy, carefree feeling of being in love and features some Hawaiian-inspired instrumentation, including steel drums and a ukulele. “Harleys in Hawaii” is a fun, summery track that is sure to get stuck in your head.

E.T. – Katy Perry

Katy Perry - E.T. ft. Kanye West (Official Music Video)

Released in 2011, “E.T.” is a song by American singer Katy Perry. The song is about falling in love with an extraterrestrial being. The lyrics describe the feeling of being in love as being “out of this world.” The song was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. It has also been praised for its catchy melody and Perry’s vocal performance. In addition to its chart success, “E.T.” has also been nominated for several awards, including Grammy Awards for Best Pop Solo Performance and Best Pop Vocal Album.

Roar – Katy Perry

“Roar” is a song by American singer Katy Perry for her fourth studio album, Prism (2013). It was released as the lead single from the album on August 10, 2013. The song was written by Perry, Lukasz Gottwald, Bonnie McKee, Max Martin, and Henry Walter, and produced by Dr. Luke, Max Martin, and Cirkut. “Roar” is a song about empowerment featuring a Drop D guitar tuning and a thunderous drum beat. The intro features a roar sound effect followed by Katy Perry saying “I used to bite my tongue and hold my breath… Scared to rock the boat and make a mess.” The song’s narrative is empowering; it talks about being fearless and overcoming adversity with inner strength. lyrically, it is inspired by Roar’s producer Greg Kurstin’s observation that Katy Perry had been “quiet” since she achieved success with 2010’s Teenage Dream.

Unconditionally – Katy Perry

Katy Perry - Unconditionally (Official)

Katy Perry’s song “Unconditionally” is a ballad about remaining dedicated to someone even when they don’t deserve it. The lyrics express the idea that true love is not contingent on anything – it is given freely and unconditionally. The song reflects Katy Perry’s personal experiences with relationships and the difficulties of maintaining a healthy partnership. She has said that the song is about her “rebuilding [her] foundation with [her] husband.” The lyrics are meant to be inspiring and uplifting, reminding listeners that love always conquers in the end. “Unconditionally” was well-received by critics, who praised its positive message and catchy melody. It peaked at number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and remains one of Katy Perry’s most popular songs.

Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.) – Katy Perry

Katy Perry - Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.) (Official Music Video)

Katy Perry’s “Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)” is a fun and catchy pop song with a message that will resonate with many people. The song is about letting loose and having a good time, without worrying about the consequences. This is something that everyone can relate to, and the song’s positive message is sure to put a smile on your face. The production is top-notch, with a bouncy beat and infectious melodies that will stay stuck in your head for days. Perry’s vocal performance is also excellent, and she sounds like she’s having the time of her life. “Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)” is the perfect song for summertime fun, and it’s sure to get you moving and grooving along with Katy Perry.

California Gurls – Katy Perry

Katy Perry - California Gurls (Official Music Video) ft. Snoop Dogg

Katy Perry’s “California Gurls” is a 2010 pop song that prominently features California culture and references. The song’s title refers to the nickname for residents of California, “Californian girls.” In the chorus of the song, Katy Perry sings about “the golden state,” which is another nickname for California. She also references specific California landmarks, such as Hollywood and Santa Monica Boulevard. The song became Katy Perry’s fifth number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and it helped to solidify her status as one of the most popular pop performers of the early 21st century. “California Gurls” was praised by music critics for its catchy tune and playful lyrics, and it remains one of Katy Perry’s signature songs.

I Kissed A Girl – Katy Perry

Katy Perry - I Kissed A Girl (Official Music Video)

Katy Perry’s 2008 single “I Kissed a Girl” was one of the biggest hits of her career, and it also caused a bit of controversy. The song is about a woman who experiences a same-sex kiss for the first time, and it generated discussion about whether or not it was appropriate for mainstream radio. Some listeners praised the song for its frank depiction of same-sex attraction, while others criticized it for being exploitative and titillating. However, there’s no denying that “I Kissed a Girl” helped to spark a conversation about sexuality and gender norms, and it remains an important part of Perry’s catalog.

Hot N Cold – Katy Perry

Katy Perry - Hot N Cold (Official Music Video)

“Hot n Cold” is a song by American singer Katy Perry. The song was released as the second single from her second studio album, One of the Boys (2008). It was written by Perry, Greg Wells, and Dr. Luke, and produced by Dr. Luke. The song is a mid-tempo pop track with influences of disco and rock music. Lyrically, the song is about a relationship that is “hot and cold”. The song received generally positive reviews from music critics, who complimented its production and Perry’s vocals. The song became a commercial success, peaking at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming Perry’s second consecutive single to reach the top ten in the United States.

The One That Got Away – Katy Perry

Katy Perry - The One That Got Away (Official Music Video)

Katy Perry’s “The One That Got Away” is a haunting ballad about love, loss, and what could have been. The song starts with a simple guitar melody, which is soon joined by Katy’s ethereal vocals. She sings about a relationship that ended before it had a chance to truly begin, and how she still thinks about what might have been. The chorus is particularly resonant, with Katy singing “It’s hard to say goodbye / To the one that got away.” The song has a feeling of regret and nostalgia, and it’s clear that Katy is still haunted by her lost love. However, there is also a sense of hope in the song, as Katy sings about how the one that got away “might just be the one I need.” It’s a beautiful and heartbreaking song, and it’s sure to resonate with anyone who has ever experienced a lost love.

Bon Appétit – Katy Perry

Katy Perry - Bon Appétit (Official) ft. Migos

“Bon Appétit” is a song recorded by American singer Katy Perry for her fifth studio album, Witness (2017). It was released on April 28, 2017 as the lead single from the album through Capitol Records. The song features verses from rapper Migos and a chorus sung by Perry. “Bon Appétit” is a trap-influenced pop and R&B song with elements of house music. The lyrics are about sexual intercourse and Perry acting as a food item to be eaten. Music critics generally responded positively to “Bon Appétit”, although some found the song’s musical style and Perry’s vocal performance to be unusual. The song peaked at number 59 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and at number 34 on the Canadian Hot 100. The song’s accompanying music video was released on May 12, 2017 and featured Migos, Perry, and numerous cooking appliances and utensils. In it, Perry is prepared and served as a meal by chefs. “Bon Appétit” was performed live at multiple award ceremonies and television programs.

Chained To The Rhythm – Katy Perry

Katy Perry - Chained To The Rhythm (Official) ft. Skip Marley

Chained to the Rhythm is a 2017 song by American singer Katy Perry. The song addresses Perry’s struggles with anxiety and depression, as well as her battle with celebrity culture. Perry has stated that the song is about “living in a bubble”, and that it was inspired by her own experiences as well as those of other celebrities. The song debuted at number four on the US Billboard Hot 100, and has since peaked at number three. It has also reached the top ten in several other countries, including Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Chained to the Rhythm is Perry’s first single to top the US dance charts, and has been certified quadruple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America.

Swish Swish – Katy Perry

Katy Perry - Swish Swish (Official) ft. Nicki Minaj

Swish Swish is a song recorded by American singer Katy Perry for her fifth studio album, Witness (2017). The song was written by Perry, Sarah Hudson, Jordyn Taylor, Caroline Polachek, and its producers Duke Dumont andPFN. It was released to radio on May 18, 2017, as the album’s third single. “Swish Swish” is a disco house track with elements of new jack swing, techno, and reggaeton. Lyrically, it has been described as a diss track aimed at an unidentified person. The song received mixed reviews from music critics; some praised its catchy hook while others criticized it for being “silly” and having “un-subtle” lyrics. It debuted at number 48 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and peaked at number 44.

Part Of Me – Katy Perry

Katy Perry - Part Of Me (Official)

Part of Me is a song by Katy Perry that was released in 2012. The song is about Perry’s experience with a past relationship. Perry has said that the song is about “taking control and standing up for yourself.” The lyrics talk about how Perry was able to move on from the relationship and become a stronger person. Part of Me peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making it Perry’s seventh number-one single in the United States. The song also won the Grammy Award for Best Pop Solo Performance at the 2013 Grammy Awards.

Teenage Dream – Katy Perry

Katy Perry - Teenage Dream (Official Music Video)

“Teenage Dream” is a song by American singer Katy Perry. The song was released as the second single from her third studio album of the same name on July 23, 2010. “Teenage Dream” is a mid-tempo pop song with influences of power pop and electronica. The song has been described as “an ode to young love”. The lyric revolves around teenage love and summertime flings. The song received generally positive reviews from music critics, many of whom praised its production and Perry’s vocal performance. It peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming Perry’s fifth Non-consecutive number-one single in the United States. Internationally, the single topped the charts in Australia, Canada, Denmark, New Zealand, Poland, and Scotland. A music video for the song was filmed in various locations around Los Angeles and directed by Yoann Lemoine. 

Birthday – Katy Perry

Katy Perry - Birthday (Lyric Video)

“Birthday” is a song recorded by American singer Katy Perry for her fourth studio album, Prism (2013). She co-wrote the song with Bonnie McKee and its producers Dr. Luke, Max Martin, and Cirkut. It was released as the record’s seventh single on April 24, 2014. “Birthday” is a mid-tempo disco-pop song with elements of funk that features percussive beats, strong basslines, and horn hits. The lyrics revolve around Perry being excited about having a wild party to celebrate her birthday. On May 9, 2014, a lyric video was released for the single which featured colorful animated cupcakes.  To further promote the song, Perry uploaded an acoustic version onto YouTube on May 30, 2014.

This Is How We Do – Katy Perry

Katy Perry - This Is How We Do (Official)

This Is How We Do is a song by American singer Katy Perry. It was released as the lead single from her fourth studio album, Prism, on June 26, 2014. The song peaked at number 18 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart and at number four on the UK Singles Chart. The song lyrically speaks of a party lifestyle and has been described as “a club anthem about having fun.” The music video was directed by Jon Jon Augustavo and was released on July 7, 2014. It features Perry hanging out with friends in Los Angeles while doing various activities such as playing basketball, roller skating, and spray painting graffiti.

Wide Awake – Katy Perry

Katy Perry - Wide Awake (Official Video)

Released in 2012, “Wide Awake” is a song by American singer Katy Perry. The song was written by Perry, Linda Perry, and Bonnie McKee, and produced by Dr. Luke and Cirkut. “Wide Awake” is a power ballad with elements of pop rock and dance-pop. The song has a tempo of 128 beats per minute and is written in the key of D Major. Lyrically, the song is about Perry coming to terms with the end of a relationship. The song received generally positive reviews from music critics, who praised its production and Perry’s vocal performance. “Wide Awake” peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The song also reached the top ten in Australia, Canada, Denmark, Ireland, New Zealand, Scotland, and Sweden. The song’s accompanying music video was directed by Patrick Daughters and depicts Perry going through various stages of grief after waking up from a dream.

When I’m Gone – Alesso And Katy Perry

Alesso, Katy Perry - When I'm Gone (Official Music Video)

When I’m Gone is a song by Alesso and Katy Perry. The song is about Katy Perry and her career. She has been very successful, but she is not sure if she can keep it up. The song is about her struggles and her fears. She is worried that she will lose everything that she has worked for. The song is also about her fans. She is grateful for their support, but she is worried that they will forget about her when she is gone. When I’m Gone is a very personal and introspective song. It shows that even though Katy Perry is a very successful artist, she is still human and she has the same fears and doubts as everyone else.

Thinking Of You – Katy Perry

Katy Perry - Thinking Of You (Official)

Released in 2008, “Thinking of You” is a ballad written by Katy Perry and produced by Butch Walker. The song is about a former lover that Perry is still thinking about. It received mixed reviews from music critics, with some calling it “catchy” and others feeling it was too similar to her other work. Despite the mixed reviews, the song was a moderate success, peaking at number 19 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s music video was directed by Alan Ferguson and features Perry wandering around San Francisco while thinking about her former lover. Perry has said that the song is one of her favorite that she has written, and it remains a fan favorite.