Katy Perry Sings of a Relationship That Left Her ‘Bleeding Out Slow’ in New Single ‘Bandaids’

Katy Perry's latest release, "Bandaids," provides an intimate glimpse into her recent separation from actor Orlando Bloom. The song opens with candid lines such as "It's not what you did, it's what you didn't" and "You were there, but you weren't," conveying the emotional void left in the wake of their split. This single is her first since the album "143," whose global promotional tour concludes in Abu Dhabi on December 7.

The accompanying music video, directed by Christian Breslauer—known for his work with artists like SZA, Lizzo, and Doja Cat—unfolds as a "Final Destination"-style thriller. Perry’s character narrowly dodges a series of near-fatal accidents, from electrocution at a "Light and Love Crystals" shop to multiple car crashes, symbolizing the shattering of her optimistic worldview. A poignant moment arrives when a white daisy sprouts from the ground, a tender nod to her daughter, Daisy Dove, whom Perry and Bloom continue to co-parent following their separation earlier this year after nearly a decade together.

Perry and Bloom, who began dating in 2016, publicly announced the end of their relationship after nine years. Their romance had been a fixture in celebrity news, which lends the heartfelt themes of "Bandaids" added resonance for fans. As music critic Lena Moreau notes, "Katy Perry has a history of turning personal heartbreak into universal hits—'Bandaids' continues that tradition, blending vulnerability with high-concept visuals."

In the video’s climactic sequence, Perry lights a cigarette at a gas station as the chorus of her earlier single "Woman’s World" builds in the background, culminating in a fiery blast. Despite the chaos, she delivers a closing line of resilience: "if I had to do it all over again, I would still do it all over again," underscoring a theme of acceptance and inner fortitude.

Her recent album "143," which featured collaborations with 21 Savage, Kim Petras, Doechii, and JID, entered the Billboard 200 at No. 6. With "Bandaids," Perry once again transforms personal trials into art, merging autobiographical reflection with a visually rich story of survival and moving forward.