Pop star Kesha discusses the importance of truth in songwriting, sharing insights into the creation of her hits like 'TiK ToK' and 'Praying'. She performs her new song 'Cathedral' and explores the healing power of music and self-expression.

Kesha, singer and songwriter from Los Angeles, discusses her shift to more raw and vulnerable music. She talks about the distorted vocal sound in her song 'Eat the Acid' and how it was influenced by the pandemic lockdown. Kesha reflects on her life as a pop star and shares how lockdown led to self-reflection and transformative music creation. They also explore the influence of Kesha's mother on her music and discuss vulnerability in songwriting.

Kesha, a pop icon known for her resilience and legal battles, and Katy Perry, celebrated for her catchy hits, discuss the complex landscape of their careers. They delve into Kesha's independent comeback with 'Joyride' and Perry's challenge to reclaim her spot in the charts with 'Woman's World.' Tensions simmer as Kesha's cryptic tweet raises eyebrows about their friendship. They also examine how evolving themes of empowerment shape their music and reflect on the pressures female artists face in today's industry.

Long regarded as pop music’s resident party animal, Kesha is now dead-set on slowing down and speaking up. Since debuting on the hook of Flo-Rida’s mega smash “Right Round” in 2009, Kesha has released five albums—two of which debuted at number one. And until very recently, she was involved in a decade-long court case with her former producer and label head. Somehow despite the bitter legal battle and a public struggle with an eating disorder, Kesha has remained steadfast in sharing her art with her fans, who she affectionately refers to as her “animals.” On today’s episode Justin Richmond talks to Kesha about how working with Rick Rubin on her new album Gag Order provided the safe space she has longed for when making music. She also talks about how she channels Dolly Parton, Iggy Pop and Beyonce when she’s in promotional mode, and how early in her career she lived in a castle with roommate Devendra Banhart. You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite Kesha songs HERE.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kesha and Zane Lowe explore Kesha's journey, the honesty in her music, and her rehabilitation process. They discuss her new album, the importance of self-kindness, coping through songwriting, embracing weirdness, and maintaining identity.