Among all the viral videos out there, one that’s stood out to me recently is the music video for “Chandelier” by Australian singer/songwriter Sia; mostly because it brought me back to her emotional and powerful song “Breathe Me” that I loved so much in high school. The song stuck to me like glue, but let’s be honest: If you know it, you know that it may have the most depressing lyrics you can find in pop music. Not a lot of people are aware, but Sia has collaborated with many of the popular artists we know today, such as Rihanna, Beyonce, Katy Perry, Christina Aguilera, and so on. I’m personally so excited to see this boost of recognition Sia is receiving with “Chandelier,” and if you haven’t seen the video, do so because it’s beautiful.

Although catchy and full of extremely powerful and moving ballads, Sia’s songwriting has always been dark but real. Whatever limits there are for women in pop music have been crossed by Sia. Music runs through her blood as she was born to musician parents and chose to pursue the craft in her teenage years. Sia hasn’t always been dealt the best cards throughout her life, and has faced a darkness a lot of us may never understand.

Yet with her music there is a beautiful human connection that can’t be denied. Last week, her new album, 1000 Forms of Fear (being released tomorrow), was streaming for free on iTunes. I thought I’d give it a shot and I’m glad I did because it raises the bar for a female pop album as it’s honest and strong. Sia is definitely someone I suggest listening to if you haven’t started already.

Pick up her new album tomorrow in stores or online. For all things Sia, follow her on Twitter and like her on Facebook.

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