Katy Perry Reflects on Her Musical Journey, Says She’s ‘Continuing to Move Forward’

Katy Perry is marking the one-year anniversary of her album 143.

The singer, 40, took to Instagram on Monday, September 22, to share several behind-the-scenes photos and videos, as well as a heartfelt letter to her fans.

“1 year ago, 143 came out and I took the weekend to reflect,” Perry wrote in a lengthy caption. “Records are snapshots of an artist trying to tell their story of where they are now or have been, and hope someone will hear themselves in some of the messages. 143 to me was literally me saying I love you to my fans. Looking back now, I realize it has been all about reconnecting to my fans through these songs and through this wonderful tour that has given me the opportunity to see so many of you again and for the first time.”

Perry continued, “I am so proud of the community we are and growing to become. History is important, we learn from history, we are reminded of how to and what not to do when we look back. We celebrate the wins and reflect on the losses. All of it is valuable. Let’s hope we get to evolve together for years to come and at the end of it all be proud and at peace with how we tried our best in this imperfect world.”

Perry said she’s “proud that I keep on swinging,” and reflected on the ups and downs of her long journey making pop music.

“Through my years in the spotlight, I have been beloved, tested and tried,” she said, adding, “I am blessed to know that there’s always two sides to each coin, and I learn that even when I hit tails, somehow through it all, I keep making my wishes.”

She added that her best friend had given her a “framed 19th century book called What Katy Did Next. I’ve never read it, but the title has always stuck with me. That’s the point — it’s about continuing to move forward, and dream.”

In conclusion, Perry stated, “Whatever comes next, I’m letting it unfold naturally. No forcing, no controlling — just trusting the angels, the fans, and the music to guide me where I’m meant to go. Please know this: my love for you is unconditional, and I couldn’t do any of this without you.”

Perry, who recently split from ex Orlando Bloom and has been quietly seeing former Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau, will take her globe-trotting Lifetimes Tour to Europe next month.