Katy Perry Release Olympic Anthem "Rise"
Photo: Capitol Music Group

Katy Perry just released her first new single since her 2013 record Prism, but it’s not the kind of party anthems that “Roar” and “Birthday” were from the last album. “Rise” evokes a message of perseverance and hope, which makes it a fitting soundtrack for the 2016 Rio Olympics.

“This is a song that’s been brewing inside me for years, that has finally come to the surface,” Perry said of the single in a statement. “I was inspired to finish it now, rather than save it for my next album, because now more than ever, there is a need for our world to unite.”

She further explained her creative process behind the track on the TODAY Show this morning.

“Let’s be inspired, let’s heal, let’s unite—and rise,” she said while introducing the track.

The accompanying video is also extremely moving, featuring clips of Olympic athletes’ trials, struggles and successes. Watch it and listen to “Rise” in full below.

“Rise” is exclusively streaming on Apple Music and available for download on iTunes.

From: Harper’s BAZAAR US