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Katy Perry is a renowned American singer, songwriter, and television judge. Born on October 25, 1984, in Santa Barbara, California, she was given the name Katheryn Elizabeth Hudson at birth. Her parents, Mary Christine and Maurice Keith Hudson, are Pentecostal pastors, and Katy grew up in a religious household.

Perry began her musical journey at a young age, inspired by artists such as Freddie Mercury, Janet Jackson, and Ella Fitzgerald. She released her first gospel album, "Katy Hudson," under her real name in 2001, at the age of 18. However, the album did not gain significant commercial success.

In 2007, Perry adopted the stage name Katy Perry and shifted her musical focus towards pop music. Her breakthrough single, "I Kissed a Girl," was released in 2008 and became an international success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. The song's provocative lyrics and catchy melody helped establish Perry as a pop icon.

Perry's subsequent albums, "One of the Boys" (2008), "Teenage Dream" (2010), and "Prism" (2013), all reached the top of the Billboard 200 chart in the United States. Her music is known for its upbeat and catchy pop melodies, as well as its themes of self-empowerment, love, and self-discovery.

Perry has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including her partnership with UNICEF and her work with the Human Rights Campaign. She has also been an advocate for mental health awareness and has spoken openly about her own struggles with depression and anxiety.

In addition to her music career, Perry has appeared as a judge on the American Idol television show and has made guest appearances on various other television programs. She has also dabbled in acting, with roles in movies such as "The Smurfs" and "The Smurfs 2."

Perry's personal life has been the subject of much media attention, including her high-profile relationships with Russell Brand and Orlando Bloom. She is known for her distinctive fashion sense, which often includes bold and colorful outfits.

Overall, Katy Perry is a talented and influential pop artist who has made a significant impact on the music industry with her catchy songs and bold persona. She continues to be a popular figure in entertainment and a role model for many young people.