“PERFUME” by Kelsie Kimberlin

With her third single of 2025, Kelsie Kimberlin once again proves why she’s a compelling force in today’s pop landscape. “Perfume,” released in March, is a lush, emotionally resonant track that explores the delicate pull of attraction through the metaphor of scent. Infused with sophistication and subtle power, the single highlights Kimberlin’s growing artistry and her flair for storytelling through music. Inspired by both literature and lived experience, “Perfume” draws on the evocative imagery found in the novel of the same name. But rather than veering into the book’s darker themes, Kimberlin reshapes the concept into something warm, magnetic, and filled with hope. Love, in her world, is like perfume—wordless but deeply affecting, something you feel before you even realize it’s there. The lyrics suggest a love so enchanting that it leaves a trail, pulling someone in without ever needing a spoken word.

Musically, “Perfume” is sleek and sensual. The track opens with a gentle rhythm that pulses like a heartbeat—intimate and hypnotic. Kelsie’s voice, effortlessly expressive, glides over the arrangement with a blend of vulnerability and strength. There’s a softness in her delivery that invites the listener in, creating a sense of closeness that mirrors the song’s message. The dreamy production, handled by Liam Noland (Adele) and Stuart Hawkes (Amy Winehouse), gives the track a refined yet modern edge, ensuring it hits all the right emotional notes. The accompanying music video, filmed on location in Kyiv, Ukraine, is just as affecting. Directed by Kelsie herself alongside Ukrainian filmmaker Pavlo Khomiuk, the visuals are understated yet emotionally rich. We see her wandering the historic cobblestone streets of Kyiv, accompanied by a partner who trails behind her with longing. Their interactions are minimal—just occasional glances and gentle touches—but they speak volumes.

The video captures that idea of love as an invisible thread, always present, always guiding.

Tragically, the video also holds deeper weight. Shortly after filming wrapped, a Russian drone strike hit a nearby building, claiming the life of 15-year-old Mariya Troyanovskaya. Deeply moved by the event, Kimberlin dedicated the song to Mariya’s memory. This dedication adds a haunting poignancy to an otherwise dreamy track, reminding us of love’s fragility and the human stories behind every piece of art. “Perfume” is more than a love song—it’s an experience, a sensory journey that lingers long after the final note. Kelsie Kimberlin has crafted a piece that not only showcases her talent but also her compassion and vision as an artist. With a track that’s both intimate and universal, she continues to solidify her place as one of pop’s most promising voices.

Garcia Penned 🖊️