Pop star Katy Perry has released her new single Watch It Burn, a revenge-themed track that has sparked widespread speculation among fans about its inspiration, with many linking the song to her past relationship with actor Orlando Bloom.
The singer unveiled the music video on Thursday across social media platforms, showcasing a darker artistic persona while reflecting on themes of heartbreak, anger and personal growth.
In the song, Perry sings lyrics including, “Tonight’s the night, I light a match. Throw it hard behind my back. Gonna try to forgive and forget,” before continuing, “Light a cigarette, and watch it burn.”
While Perry has not identified any individual as the inspiration behind the track, fans quickly pointed to apparent references to Bloom, her former fiancé and the father of her daughter, Daisy Dove Bloom.
The music video features Perry portraying a scorpion-like character navigating a cityscape. In one sequence, magazine stands displaying covers featuring male models resembling Bloom are set ablaze, prompting online discussion about possible connections to the actor.
Social media users praised both the song and its visual concept, with many describing it as one of Perry’s strongest recent releases.
Days before the song’s debut, Perry spoke candidly about embracing emotions she previously suppressed.
“I have not given myself permission to be angry my whole life over things where I should be angry about,” Perry said. “What I’ve done is I pushed it down, but I should be angry. I’m allowed to be angry for a moment.”
The song’s lyrics explore feelings of disappointment and emotional exhaustion within a relationship. In one verse, Perry sings, “For years, you fed me only crumbs. You paid me only dust,” before declaring, “You know I gave, and I gave. Now I’m giving up.”
Perry and Bloom ended their long-term engagement last year after nearly a decade together. Neither Perry nor Bloom has publicly commented on speculation surrounding the song.
The singer, known for hits including Firework, Roar and Teenage Dream, has had several high-profile relationships throughout her career. Despite fan theories, Perry has not confirmed whether Watch It Burn was inspired by any specific former partner.
The release marks another chapter in Perry’s evolving musical direction, with the track focusing on empowerment, self-reflection and moving forward from past relationships.
