Artist of the month: Katy Perry - page 2

21-08-2008 14:41

She has openly talked about her struggles within the music industry, such as being dropped from record labels for much of her early career. Her songs eventually captured the attention of Virgin Records CEO Jason Flom, who was the head of Capitol Music Group, and she signed to Capitol Music in 2007.

An early song of Perry's titled "Breakout" was covered by Miley Cyrus for her 2008 album Breakout.

After signing to Capitol Records, Perry began recording for her official mainstream debut album, released in 2008. The full length album, One of the Boys, was released in the USA on June 17 and reached number 9 in the charts.

"I think people appreciate a songwriter who shows different sides," Katy says. "The whole angst thing is cool, but if that’s all you've got, it's just boring. Everything I write, whether it’s happy or sad, has a sense of humour to it. Someone told me the other day that I'm a bit like Lucille Ball. They said, ‘You look pretty put together on the outside, but inside there’s just something a bit wrong.’"

The album was preceded by a digital EP in late 2007, entitled "Ur So Gay". "Ur So Gay" has been criticized for alleged homophobia for its derogatory use of the word 'gay'.

In addition, Katy has had songs from the album featured on MTV's series, The Hills, on Oxygen Network's reality series, Fight Girls, and on the 2008 film Baby Mama. She was also featured on P.O.D.'s 2006 single "Goodbye for Now".

Personal life

Katy's real name is Katy Hudson but she switched to her mum's maiden name to avoid confusion with the actress Kate Hudson.

Despite what her songs might suggest Katy actually prefers kissing boys and is dating Gym Class Heroes frontman Travis McCoy. She appeared in the video for the band's single Cupid's Chokehold, playing Travis's love interest.

What is she up to now?

Katy's popularity is sky high at the moment. Her MySpace page is the third most visited after Lil Wayne and Rihanna. She has had over 7.6 million plays and boasts over 190,000 friends.

Katy is currently in the final stages of a US tour and is celebrating been nominated in two categories at the MTV Music Video awards this year, Best Female Performance and Best newcomer.

What's next?

Katy will be starting a European tour next month which kicks off in London on September 10th.

The album One of the Boys hits UK shores on September 15th.

Jessica Watson - FemaleFirst