Charli Ra Connects The Personal & Cosmic In The Video For “Portal”
With the discovery of the atom in the late 1800s came a feeling of universality, as its structure appeared to mirror the vastness of the cosmos, suggesting a grand framework connecting the smallest and largest scales of the universe. Electrons circling protons and neutrons. Planets and moons orbiting a sun. Solar systems moving around a black hole within a galaxy. The same patterns seemed to echo across the micro and macro scales of existence. Later advancements, however, debunked this notion, revealing that static representations of a solar system and atom show some similarities, but are not practical comparisons. Despite this, the notion has persisted, inspiring scientific research even recently that highlights how, whether looking inward or outward, we can still find the same impressive beauty throughout the universe.
This idea permeates “Portal,” the new hypnotic song by Charli Ra, which also has its own accompanying music video. With one eye gazing on the cosmos and the other on the quantum level, it allows a third space to operate… a third eye, to some, but to others, just a strong intuition that no matter how small or massive a structure or concept is, its universality is always felt.
The video captures this feeling perfectly with a swirling blend of cosmic overlays and mesmerizing glares, with Charli Ra gazing through the spiritual expanse alongside Dolly McMullen, drawing listeners in with its own immersive trance. Shot by Cat McCarthy, the visuals are both ethereal and supernatural, offering glimpses of the breathtaking beauty of the universe, while other washed-out shots hint at life’s hidden mysteries… unexplained wonders that provoke awe in their own right.
Released in December 2024, “Portal” is the most recent single from Charli Ra, following “Let Go” in the same year, a single released in collaboration with Tiara & Andrew, a duo whose sound and aesthetic aligns seamlessly with hers. Charli’s music journey began in 2018, and since that time, she’s released several records–2019’s Ship Of Imagination, 2020’s Selathia, 2021’s 1st Density, 2023’s Light Codes–each release carrying her message of divine unity that reminds people of the connective tissue between us all and that we are truly capable of anything.
Watch the video for “Portal” below, and be sure to follow Charli Ra on social media for updates on future releases and news. Don’t miss the chance to see her live on Wednesday, April 2nd, as part of the Woman Crush Wednesday showcase at The Camel (ticket information here).
