"Praying" is a powerful song by American singer Kesha, released in 2017 as the lead single from her third studio album, "Rainbow." Here are some interesting facts about the song and Kesha's journey:
Emotional Comeback: "Praying" marked Kesha's return to the music industry after a legal battle with her former producer, Dr. Luke, which had put her career on hold for several years. The song is seen as a symbol of her resilience and personal growth.
Writing and Inspiration: Kesha co-wrote "Praying" with Ben Abraham, Ryan Lewis, and Andrew Joslyn. The song's lyrics are deeply personal and speak to Kesha's experiences and struggles, making it a cathartic and emotionally charged piece.
Vocals and Range: The song showcases Kesha's impressive vocal range and emotional depth. It features a powerful and heartfelt vocal performance that resonated with both fans and critics.
Grammy Nomination: "Praying" received widespread acclaim and earned Kesha her first Grammy Award nomination for Best Pop Solo Performance in 2018.
Music Video Symbolism: The music video for "Praying" was praised for its symbolism and visual storytelling. It was directed by Jonas Åkerlund and features scenes that reflect Kesha's journey to self-empowerment and healing.
Chart Success: The song performed well on the charts, reaching the top 10 in several countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. It received considerable airplay and became an anthem of empowerment for many.
Song's Message: "Praying" is a message of forgiveness and empathy. Kesha stated that it's about "learning to be proud of the person you are even during low moments when you feel alone," and it encourages individuals to find strength in adversity.
Rainbow Album: The song "Praying" served as the introduction to Kesha's "Rainbow" album, which marked a significant departure from her earlier work. The album features a more mature and diverse sound that includes elements of pop, rock, and country.
Live Performances: Kesha delivered several emotional live performances of "Praying," including a memorable rendition at the 2018 Grammy Awards, where she was joined on stage by a group of fellow female artists, further emphasizing the song's message of solidarity and strength.
Impact on Mental Health Conversations: Kesha's openness about her struggles with mental health and her personal journey to healing through "Praying" has contributed to discussions about mental health in the music industry and beyond, helping reduce the stigma associated with seeking help.
"Praying" remains one of Kesha's most celebrated songs and is often regarded as a symbol of her resilience and artistic evolution.