Kesha Releases Powerful New Ballad, 'Praying' & Announces First Album in 5 Years

Today is a glorious day, and also one of the most important pop culture moments to happen in years: Kesha is back--officially. She's released a new ballad, "Praying," which addresses her intense legal battle that's plagued her emotional life and career over the past several years, along with a colorful, moving music video. The pop star will also premiere a new album, Rainbow, out August 11.

Kesha released an essay on Lenny Letterthis morning discussing her new single. In it, she explains:

"I have channeled my feelings of severe hopelessness and depression, I've overcome obstacles, and I have found strength in myself even when it felt out of reach. I've found what I had thought was an unobtainable place of peace. This song is about coming to feel empathy for someone else even if they hurt you or scare you. It's a song about learning to be proud of the person you are even during low moments when you feel alone."

The music has long been anticipated by her fans, who've stood by her side as she fought to gain freedom from her producer and sexual abuser, Dr. Luke. A profile in The New York Timeslast October revealed she'd been sitting on a 22-song album for some time, recorded at her own expense, but had been unable to release the music because of her contract. Now, at last, she's able to bring her new sound to the public.

"In the past couple of years, I have grown into a strong, independent woman," she said to Lenny. "I have realized through this long journey of ups and downs that if I'm lucky enough to have a voice that people listen to, then I should use it for good and for truth. I've battled intense anxiety and depression, a relentless eating disorder, and all the other basic bullshit that comes with being human. I know I'm not alone in that battle."

Kesha continued, saying this new music is the rawest she's ever done:

"I've written a record that reveals my vulnerabilities, and I have found strength in that. In the past, I've always felt like I was trying to prove something, trying to be someone I thought people wanted me to be, but on this record, I'm just telling the truth about my life. This album is me. The most raw and real art I have ever created, and now it's my gift to you. I hope you love it. Thank you for not giving up on me."

The "Praying" video channels "G.U.Y."-era Lady Gaga, with a similar anti-music industry message, but is more vibrant and colorful, yet ultimately spreads a similar story of resilience and hope. And, since it appears that on this wonderful Thursday morning all of our prayers have been answered, Kesha interacts with a whale in the ocean during a pivotal scene.

We haven't been this excited and inspired by a new song in quite some time, and we smile up to the moon to think that our dear sister Kesha is finally free and able to heal from the horrors that have befallen her over the past half a decade. Rainbow is out next month and will save our sorry souls.

Oh, and one more thing--there's a note in the final minute of "Praying" that will change your life forever. She sounds really incredible. Take a look at the video, below.