An old Katy Perry song is currently trending and going viral, shedding light on what her fans are truly yearning for. Over the course of her career, Perry has released a total of seven studio albums; however, her last three albums have not achieved the same level of success as her earlier works. Music enthusiasts have been vocal about their opinions regarding Katy Perry’s career path, often expressing their dissatisfaction in a candid manner.

Despite the criticism she has faced recently, it’s important to recognize that Perry’s early music significantly defined the pop landscape of the 2010s. At the 2011 American Music Awards, Katy Perry was honored with the Special Achievement Award, becoming the first woman to equal Michael Jackson’s record of having five number-one singles from a single album. Unfortunately, the lack of recent chart-topping hits has led fans to reminisce about her classic songs, which is why a 17-year-old track has recently surged in popularity.

Fans Are Nostalgic for the “Thinking Of You” Era

Celebrate Perry’s 2008 Ballad as One of Her Most Emotional Tracks

Katy Perry emerged as one of the preeminent pop stars during the 2010s, with her breakout album, One Of The Boys, showcasing a unique pop-rock sound. The album’s poignant third single, “Thinking Of You,” highlights a vulnerability and depth that Perry has not explored in her recent work, which many fans have expressed a longing for. Her last number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 was the 2013 collaboration “Dark Horse” with Juicy J. Even though she has continued to release music, her newer songs have not struck a chord with listeners like her earlier hits did, and recent controversies surrounding her have only added to the challenges she faces.

In July 2024, Katy Perry released “Woman’s World,” which faced backlash for being perceived as disconnected from her audience—especially due to her collaboration with producer Dr. Luke, who has been mired in controversies, including accusations of sexual assault from singer Kesha. Subsequently, in April 2025, Perry was again criticized for her participation in Jeff Bezos’ space mission, prompting fans to reflect on her earlier persona and the music that defined her career. “Thinking Of You” is often regarded as one of her most compelling songs, resonating with listeners on a profound emotional level.

Cause when I’m with him, I am

Thinking of you, thinking of you

What you would do if

You were the one who was

Spending the night

Oh, I wish that I

Was looking into your eyes.

While Katy has collaborated with a variety of writers and producers like Dr. Luke, she is credited as the sole songwriter for her One Of The Boys track “Thinking Of You.” The song poignantly narrates the turmoil of trying to move on from a past relationship. Particularly striking to TikTok users is a specific lyric where Perry eloquently compares her ex-lover to “an Indian summer in the middle of winter” and “a hard candy with a surprise center.“

Users on TikTok are captivated not only by Perry’s vocal delivery of the lyrics but also by her clever and evocative songwriting. Many find it perplexing how her lyrical prowess has transitioned from such sharp, emotional storytelling to her more recent album, 143, which lacks standout tracks. The authenticity and depth in “Thinking Of You” resonate on a different level compared to some of her newer material.

The emotional impact of “Thinking Of You” can be attributed to its raw authenticity. Katy Perry taps into the same heartfelt expressions that resonate with artists like Taylor Swift and Olivia Rodrigo. Although Perry has traditionally identified more as a pop artist than a singer-songwriter, she undeniably possesses the ability to create impressive lyrical narratives. Revisiting this style of songwriting could prove to be beneficial for her artistic journey moving forward.

Is It Possible for Katy Perry to Create Another Heartfelt Ballad Like “Thinking Of You”?

Discover Perry’s Collection of Emotional Ballads

As “Thinking Of You” continues to gain traction on TikTok, it’s worth noting that this song is not the last time Katy Perry explored the theme of heartbreak in her music. Her third studio album, Teenage Dream, features the beloved single “The One That Got Away,” which, much like “Thinking Of You,” delves into the emotional struggles of moving on from a past relationship. This track too is imbued with profound emotion and authenticity, qualities that resonate deeply with her audience.

Additionally, Katy Perry has produced lesser-known yet deeply emotional ballads such as “Pearl” and a heartfelt love song dedicated to her partner Orlando Bloom titled “Never Worn White.” Katy Perry has demonstrated her capability to craft touching ballads, and with the resurgence of interest in “Thinking Of You,” it would be wise for her to reconnect with that older sound as she prepares for her next music project.