In Katy Perry’s new video for "Rise," the singer gives a literal interpretation of struggle, conquering fear and perseverance, especially if the fear includes one of heights. Set in various locations, from an abandoned-looking rusty old hangar to the mountainous, red sandstone-dotted Snow Canyon and Sand Hollow State Parks in Utah and in water, Perry is tethered to a pink parachute as she makes her way through the scenic locales.
The strings and parachute hold her back, yet she still continues to try to propel herself forward, mirroring her lyrics. "Victory is in my veins," she sings on the empowering tune, "I’ll fight it, I’ll fight it/ I will transform." In the end, Perry does indeed rise as she floats skyward when the parachute eventually takes flight. The Paul Gore-directed video was premiered on Thursday during NBC’s Rio Olympics Preview Special. The song also serves as the soundtrack for the network’s Olympics coverage.