Themes and Style
Although Perry's musical style and way of composing ironic and bawdy songs has been heavily compared to the style of singers Avril Lavigne and Lily Allen, the singer was actually influenced by artists and bands like Queen (Freddie Mercury in particular), The Beach Boys, Heart, Joni Mitchell, Paul Simon, Cyndi Lauper, and Alanis Morissette. All songs on the album were written by Perry, assisted by musicians Greg Wells, Max Martin, Dr. Luke, Cathy Dennis, Desmond Child, Andreas Carlsson, Sam Hollander, Dave Katz, S*A*M and Sluggo, Ted Bruner, Scott Cutler, Anne Preven, Dave Stewart, and Glen Ballard. The album includes several tracks that tell stories — a balance of sad songs and happier tunes. About these opposites, she said, "I think people can appreciate a songwriter who shows different sides... I've put everything into and I feel like it's my baby."
Her first EP, Ur So Gay, which contains her first single, "Ur So Gay", was composed as a tool of revenge by the singer on her ex-boyfriend, where Perry satirizes his exaggerated emo style and metrosexual attitude. Her second single "I Kissed a Girl" generated some controversy, dealing with the subject of lesbianism. The song was inspired by actress Scarlett Johansson. In the third single "Hot n Cold", Perry discusses the theme of uncertainty and the ups and downs of relationships. Other songs like "I'm Still Breathing" and "Thinking of You", both ballads, recounted failed relationships. According to the singer, "Lost" is the most personal song on the album, because its theme is similar to her biographical events. "Waking Up in Vegas" deals with eccentric and crazy trips with friends to Las Vegas. Just like "Ur So Gay" and "Hot n Cold", the songs "Mannequin" and "If You Can Afford Me" are mocking and critical of relationships with ex-boyfriends.
Read more about this topic: One Of The Boys (Katy Perry Album)
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—Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)