Katy Perry - Wide Awake

Katy Perry proved last year that she's capable of mastering the pop ballad with "The One That Got Away," a song that was both emotional and catchy.  "Wide Awake" is another strong step in that direction.

The song is a bit slower, but in no way is uninteresting.  With electric effects and strong vocals it's as powerful as any other song she's done.  But the raw emotion that can be felt in the words brings the song up another level.  Once again it's something unique and different while maintaining a sound that is sure to keep people hooked.  The emotion is perhaps even stronger than "The One That Got Away" making it just that much more powerful.

Lyrically, the song is the opposite of "Teenage Dream," falling out of a relationship in unhappiness.  It's a tender message and personally I feel that it's easier to relate to than "The One That Got Away."  Instead of having memories of someone gone, this song tells what it feels like during the pain of the relationship.  Like the music it is something interesting and sure to get people's attention.

This is why Katy Perry is such a powerhouse.  She can juggle a variety of different styles and sell all of them.  She can be unique and creative, while not drifting too far from what we love about her.  "Wide Awake" is sure to be another hit for her.  If only Rihanna could do the same.