Kesha: The Ultimate Pop Star Comeback Story - From TiK ToK to Total Freedom in 2025

Pop superstar Kesha has officially completed one of music's most remarkable comeback stories. After nearly a decade of legal battles and personal struggles, the 38-year-old singer is now experiencing unprecedented creative freedom with her independent label Kesha Records and her latest album Period, released on Independence Day 2025.

From Nashville Beginnings to Global Stardom

Born Kesha Rose Sebert on March 1, 1987, in Los Angeles, Kesha was raised in Nashville by her single mother, Patricia "Pebe" Sebert, a renowned country songwriter. Pebe co-wrote the iconic song "Old Flames Can't Hold a Candle to You," which became a major hit for Dolly Parton in 1980.

Kesha's journey to stardom began early when she dropped out of high school at 17 to pursue music in Los Angeles. Despite receiving a near-perfect SAT score and a scholarship offer to Barnard College, she chose to follow her musical dreams - a decision that would ultimately pay off in spectacular fashion.

The TiK ToK Phenomenon That Changed Everything

In 2009, Kesha exploded onto the music scene with her debut single "TiK ToK," which became the best-selling digital single in history at the time, selling over 14 million units internationally. The song spent nine consecutive weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, making it the longest-running number-one debut by a woman since Debby Boone's 1977 hit "You Light Up My Life."

Her subsequent albums Animal (2010), Warrior (2012), Rainbow (2017), and High Road (2020) all achieved top-ten status on the Billboard 200, cementing her position as one of pop music's most successful artists. Hit singles like "We R Who We R," "Die Young," and "Timber" (with Pitbull) dominated charts worldwide.

The Dark Chapter: Legal Battles and Personal Struggles

Kesha's career took a dramatic turn in 2014 when she filed a lawsuit against producer Dr. Luke (Lukasz Gottwald), alleging sexual assault, emotional abuse, and employment discrimination. The legal battle, known as Kesha v. Dr. Luke, dominated headlines for nearly a decade and significantly impacted her ability to release new music freely.

During this challenging period, Kesha also struggled with bulimia nervosa, checking into rehab in 2014. She switched from using "Ke$ha" back to her birth name "Kesha," symbolizing a personal transformation and departure from her earlier party-girl image.

The 2025 Renaissance: Total Creative Freedom

Everything changed in June 2023 when Kesha and Dr. Luke reached a settlement, and by March 2024, her contract with Kemosabe Records officially expired. "I got a phone call on December 6 [2023], that said, 'In three months' time, you will be a free woman,'" Kesha revealed in a recent interview.

Her Independence Day 2024 single "Joyride" marked her triumphant return as an independent artist. The track became a viral sensation, proving that at 38, Kesha remains as relevant and powerful as ever. "The music industry should be fucking terrified of me," she declared, "because I'm about to make some major moves and shift this shit."

Period: A Declaration of Independence

Kesha's latest album Period, released through her own Kesha Records on July 4, 2025, represents her first completely independent work. Working with producers like A.G. Cook (Charli XCX) and Zhone (Slayyyter), the album blends her signature pop-punk energy with modern hyperpop elements.

"This record is my little wild child," Kesha explains. "My soul needs this album. I need to reclaim my joy. Because I fought so fucking long and hard for it." The album features deeply personal tracks like the six-and-a-half-minute opener "Freedom" and the spiritual closer "Cathedral," where she sings, "I'm the savior, I'm the altar, I'm the Holy Ghost."

A New Chapter: Mentorship and Industry Reform

Beyond her own music, Kesha has emerged as a mentor to the next generation of pop stars, including Reneé Rapp and Chappell Roan. She regularly reaches out to young female artists via social media, offering support and guidance based on her own experiences.

Kesha is also working on long-term plans to reform the music industry. She's developing a digital platform prioritizing artist safety and fair compensation, and teaching songwriting courses to help other artists avoid the pitfalls she experienced.

What's Next for the Pop Icon?

Currently on her "Tits Out Tour," Kesha continues to evolve as both an artist and businesswoman. Her app "Smash" aims to create community for artists and music makers, while her label Kesha Records prepares to sign new talent. She's also planning to release an album her mother made in the 1980s, honoring her musical roots.

"I really think that my joy is such a feminist act of defiance," Kesha reflects. "And to everyone who has supported me, and to anyone who's a survivor out there, know that the energy of support toward me also flows through me to them."

Frequently Asked Questions About Kesha

What is Kesha's real name?

Kesha's full name is Kesha Rose Sebert. She was born on March 1, 1987, in Los Angeles, California.

What happened between Kesha and Dr. Luke?

Kesha filed a lawsuit in 2014 against producer Dr. Luke, alleging sexual assault and emotional abuse. The legal battle lasted nearly a decade before being settled in June 2023.

What is Kesha's biggest hit song?

"TiK ToK" (2009) remains Kesha's biggest hit, becoming the best-selling digital single in history at the time with over 14 million units sold worldwide.

Is Kesha still making music in 2025?

Yes! Kesha released her independent album "Period" in July 2025 through her own label Kesha Records and is currently on her "Tits Out Tour."

How many albums has Kesha released?

Kesha has released six studio albums: Animal (2010), Warrior (2012), Rainbow (2017), High Road (2020), Gag Order (2023), and Period (2025).

Share this inspiring comeback story! Kesha's journey from pop sensation to independent artist proves that resilience and authenticity always triumph. Follow her continued evolution and support artists fighting for creative freedom.