Walking On Air

Album: Prism (2013)
Charted: 34
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • During a listening party for Prism, Katy mentioned that her friend DJ Mia Moretti was the "muse" behind several tracks on the album, including this one. She wrote this tune after the pair spent some together in Central Park watching a bunch of roller skaters doing skate dancing to deep house music. Her goal was to create a song that would be perfect for these skaters to dance to and she described it as, "CeCe Peniston and Crystal Waters wrapped up in a 2013 groove."
  • The vibrant, throbbing House song was sonically inspired by Robyn. The Swedish Synthpop singer-songwriter supported Perry on part of her California Dreams tour and the Californian songstress penned the track with frequent Robyn collaborator Klas Ahlund. "I'm such a huge Robyn fan," Perry gushed during the Prism listening party.
  • The wailing, soulful vocals at the beginning of the song are provided by Swedish singer Sabina Ddumba. The Stockholm native started singing at the age of six and has performed with the Tensta Gospel Choir.

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

Jim Adkins of Jimmy Eat World

Jim Adkins of Jimmy Eat WorldSongwriter Interviews

Jim talks about the impact of "The Middle" and uses a tree metaphor to describe his songwriting philosophy.

Weezer

WeezerFact or Fiction

Did Rivers Cuomo grow up on a commune? Why did they name their albums after colors? See how well you know your Weezer in this Fact or Fiction.

Charlotte Caffey of The Go-Go's

Charlotte Caffey of The Go-Go'sSongwriter Interviews

Charlotte was established in the LA punk scene when a freaky girl named Belinda approached her wearing a garbage bag.

Music Video Director David Hogan

Music Video Director David HoganSong Writing

David talks about videos he made for Prince, Alabama, Big & Rich, Sheryl Crow, DMB, Melissa Etheridge and Sisters of Mercy.

Edwin McCain

Edwin McCainSongwriter Interviews

"I'll Be" was what Edwin called his "Hail Mary" song. He says it proves "intention of the songwriter is 180 degrees from potential interpretation by an audience."

Chris Squire of Yes

Chris Squire of YesSongwriter Interviews

One of the most dynamic bass player/songwriters of his time, Chris is the only member of Yes who has been with the band since they formed in 1968.