The 10 best Katy Perry songs of all time

Katy Perry is an American singer, songwriter, and television judge known for her catchy pop songs and dynamic personality. Born Katheryn Elizabeth Hudson on October 25, 1984 in Santa Barbara, California, Perry rose to fame in the late 2000s with her debut single “I Kissed a Girl” (2008), which topped charts around the world. This success was followed by hit singles such as “Hot N Cold,” “California Gurls,” “Teenage Dream,” and “Firework,” all from her album *Teenage Dream* (2010), which catapulted her to superstardom. Perry’s music is characterized by upbeat melodies, powerful lyrics, and colorful imagery. She remains a prominent figure in pop music, known for her dynamic performances and chart-topping albums.

1. I kissed a girl

“I Kissed a Girl” is Katy Perry’s breakthrough single, released in 2008 as the first single from her debut studio album, One of the Boys. The song is an upbeat pop-rock track with catchy hooks and provocative lyrics. In “I Kissed a Girl,” Perry sings about an experimental encounter with another woman while drunk, and deals with themes of curiosity, sexuality, and rebellion. The song’s bold and controversial subject matter sparked discussion and debate upon its release, but also brought Perry widespread attention and commercial success. “I Kissed a Girl” topped the charts in numerous countries and became Perry’s first number one single on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. Its infectious melody and catchy chorus made it a pop culture phenomenon and cemented Perry’s status as a pop icon.

2. Roar

“Roar” is a powerful anthem by Katy Perry, released in 2013 as the first single from her fourth studio album, Prism. The song is an empowering pop-rock track with a catchy melody and uplifting lyrics. In “Roar,” Perry sings about finding strength, courage, and resilience in the face of adversity, and urges listeners to raise their voices and push through. The song’s empowering message, coupled with its infectious beat and catchy chorus, resonated with audiences around the world, making it one of Perry’s biggest hits. “Roar” topped the charts in numerous countries and became one of the best-selling singles of all time. The accompanying music video, which features Perry in various empowering and symbolic scenes, further amplified its impact and cemented its status as an anthem of strength and confidence.

3. Ascent

“Rise” is a song by Katy Perry, released as a standalone single in 2016. The song was written by Perry along with Savan Kotecha, Max Martin, and Ali Payami, and served as the anthem for the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. “Rise” features Perry’s powerful vocals and an uplifting message about resilience and overcoming adversity. The song’s inspirational lyrics and anthemic production resonated with audiences, and it became a commercial success, peaking at number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. “Rise” showcases Perry’s ability to combine pop sensibilities with motivational themes, expanding her diverse catalog of hits.

4. Enjoy your meal

“Bon Appétit” is a song by Katy Perry featuring Migos, released as a single from her 2017 album *Witness*. Co-written by Perry, Max Martin, Shellback, Oscar Holter, and Migos, the song is a playful and provocative pop track with elements of trap and electronic music. “Bon Appétit” explores themes of sensuality and pleasure, using culinary metaphors to express desire and attraction. The song features Perry’s sensual vocals alongside Migos’ rap verses, complemented by a catchy beat and a rousing chorus. Despite its commercial success, the song received mixed reviews due to its explicit lyrics and provocative imagery.

5. Fireworks

“Firework” is an inspirational pop anthem by Katy Perry, released in 2010 as the third single from her third studio album, Teenage Dream. The song encourages listeners to embrace their uniqueness and shine bright like fireworks. Lyrically, “Firework” conveys themes of self-empowerment, inner strength and resilience, urging people to recognize their own worth and potential. The song’s uplifting message, coupled with its catchy melody and powerful vocals, resonated with audiences worldwide, making it one of Katy Perry’s most successful and iconic songs. “Firework” topped the charts in numerous countries and received critical acclaim for its positive and encouraging lyrics. The accompanying music video, featuring colorful and visually stunning scenes, further enhanced its impact, cementing its status as an anthem of self-acceptance and celebration.

6. Dark Horse

“Dark Horse” is a song by Katy Perry feat. Juicy J, released in 2013 as the third single from her album *Prism*. Written by Perry, Juicy J, Dr. Luke, Max Martin, and Cirkut, the song is an electropop and trap pop track with hip hop elements. “Dark Horse” showcases Perry’s versatile vocals and includes Juicy J’s rap verses, creating a mysterious and atmospheric mood. The song’s lyrics describe Perry as a powerful and intriguing figure who warns potential suitors of her unpredictable nature. “Dark Horse” was a commercial success, topping the charts in several countries and receiving critical acclaim for its unique sound and production.

7. California Girls

“California Gurls” is a catchy pop song by Katy Perry featuring rapper Snoop Dogg, released in 2010 as the first single from her third studio album, Teenage Dream. The song celebrates the carefree and glamorous lifestyle of California with references to beaches, parties, and sunshine. Lyrically, “California Gurls” is an ode to the Golden State’s fun-loving attitude and vibrant culture. The song’s infectious beat, catchy melody, and playful lyrics resonated with listeners around the world, making it one of Katy Perry’s most successful and well-known songs. “California Gurls” topped the charts in numerous countries, receiving critical acclaim for its catchy choruses and summery vibe. The accompanying music video, featuring colorful and whimsical imagery inspired by candy and California iconography, further boosted its popularity and cemented its status as the ultimate summer anthem.

8. Wide awake

“Wide Awake” is a song by Katy Perry, released as a single from her 2012 re-release album *Teenage Dream: The Complete Confection*. The song was written by Perry along with Bonnie McKee, Dr. Luke, Max Martin, and Cirkut, and is a pop ballad with electronic influences. “Wide Awake” reflects on personal growth and overcoming challenges, especially after a relationship. Perry’s emotional vocals and the song’s introspective lyrics resonate with themes of self-discovery and resilience. The track received positive reviews for its heartfelt message and became a commercial success, further cementing Perry’s status as a pop powerhouse.

9. Daisy

“Daisies” is a pop song by Katy Perry, released in 2020 as the first single from her sixth studio album, Smile. The song is an uplifting anthem about resilience, self-empowerment, and overcoming obstacles. In “Daisies,” Perry sings about staying true to yourself and not letting doubt or criticism stop you from pursuing your dreams. The song’s message of positivity and perseverance is conveyed through its catchy melody and Perry’s powerful vocals. “Daisies” received positive reviews from critics and became a fan favorite, resonating with listeners who appreciated its encouraging lyrics and infectious energy. In the accompanying music video, Perry shows off her natural beauty and is surrounded by nature, which further reinforces the song’s themes of self-acceptance and confidence.

10. Teenage Dream

“Teenage Dream” is a nostalgic pop anthem by Katy Perry, released in 2010 as the second single from her third studio album of the same name. The song celebrates the euphoria and excitement of young love and the carefree spirit of adolescence. Lyrically, “Teenage Dream” captures the essence of youthful infatuation and the desire to live in the here and now, free from worries or responsibilities. The catchy melody, upbeat rhythm, and Perry’s lively vocals resonated with audiences worldwide, making it one of her most successful and iconic songs. “Teenage Dream” topped the charts in numerous countries and received critical acclaim for its infectious energy and catchy lyrics. The accompanying music video, featuring Perry in a variety of dreamy and whimsical scenes, further boosted its popularity and cemented its status as a quintessential pop anthem of the 2010s.

Edward Tomlin is a regular contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us on social media below.