It’s been nearly four years since we last heard new music from Kesha, who is perhaps best known for her upbeat hits “We R Who We R” and “TiK ToK” (and for waking up like P. Diddy). Kesha (yes, she’s dropped the dollar sign from her name) re-entered the music scene on Thursday with the release of her newest single, “Praying,” a powerful ballad that tells of her personal struggles, symbolizing the beginning of a brand new stage in her career.
In a post for Lenny Letter, the online newsletter created by actress Lena Dunham, Kesha explains the meaning behind “Praying,” saying that the song is about hope and how she finds strength even in her darkest moments.
As you probably remember, in 2014, Kesha filed a lawsuit against her producer, Dr. Luke, who she claimed emotionally abused, drugged and raped her. According to Billboard, it is still unclear what legal action Kesha had to take to record “Praying” and her third full-length album, Rainbow, which is set to be released Aug. 11.
In the Lenny Letter post, Kesha says: “In the past couple of years, I have grown into a strong, independent woman. I have realized through this long journey of ups and downs that if I’m lucky enough to have a voice that people listen to, then I should use it for good and for truth. I’ve battled intense anxiety and depression, a relentless eating disorder, and all the other basic bullshit that comes with being human. I know I’m not alone in that battle. Finding the strength to come forward about these things is not easy, but I want to help others who are going through tough times.”
She adds, “This song is about me finding peace in the fact that I can’t control everything—because trying to control everyone was killing me. It’s about learning to let go and realize that the universe is in control of my fate, not me.”
Kesha goes on to say, “This is just the beginning. I am so happy and grateful to begin sharing all the music I have been writing with the world. I’ve written a record that reveals my vulnerabilities, and I have found strength in that.”
I’m so excited to hear more from Kesha!
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