On the day she releases her first independent album Period, pop star Kesha is reflecting on her journey of healing, freedom, and admiration for legendary producer Rick Rubin.
In a new interview with Billboard, Kesha opened up about working with Rubin on her emotionally charged 2023 album Gag Order, her final release under Kemosabe Records—a label founded by Dr. Luke, with whom she had a highly publicized legal battle that lasted nearly a decade.
“Thank God I had Rick Rubin to do that record with,” Kesha said. “He was such a safe container for all of those emotions.”
Speaking on the emotional weight of Gag Order, Kesha shared how the project helped her process feelings of anger, isolation, and suicidal ideation. Though she worked with therapists and friends, Rubin became a crucial collaborator who helped her express her pain through music.
“I’ve never met a man that I admire more than Rick Rubin,” she added. “I got to do it with one of my heroes, and that was a really beautiful gift.”
The track “Eat the Acid”, from Gag Order, marked a turning point for Kesha. It allowed her to break free from the pressure to always be upbeat in her music.
Though the album’s initial performance was disappointing, Kesha now sees it as an essential step toward the creative independence she celebrates today with the release of Period—her first album on her own label, Kesha Records.
On Aging and Relevance
Kesha also spoke candidly about turning 38 and reclaiming her career in a society that often pushes older women out of the spotlight.
“I was made to believe that by 38 years old, nobody would give a f*** about me,” she said. “I had been told the words: by the time I was free, I would be irrelevant.”
But the response to her new music has proven otherwise.
“People do care. People are connecting. It made me feel like, ‘Okay, keep going.’”
Period is Out Now
Kesha’s new album Period is now available on all major platforms. It marks a new chapter of full control, bold expression, and emotional freedom for the artist.
