Taylor Swift’s breakthrough into the music world in 2014 was marked by the release of 1989, the ultimate pop music album of my generation. The 13 track album -19 in the deluxe version- contained songs that were admired by millions all over the world, including Shake it Off, Wildest Dreams, and Bad Blood.
On the 27th of October, 2023, the nostalgia of this revolutionary music era was brought back to life by the release of 1989 Taylor’s Version, containing five “From the Vault” songs. The re-release of her notorious, career changing album has already broken records on several platforms. Though her voice and abilities have matured over the past 9 years, the album is even more remarkable than before.
Taylor has been determined to re-release her first six albums, so that she could gain back the rights to her music. Her fans have shown abundant support through the release of previous albums, and 1989 (Taylor’s Version), which broke Spotify’s record for the most streamed album in a single day.
I grew up listening to Red and 1989 religiously. I watched Taylor’s music videos over and over again, and she became such an idol to me. Blank Space, Bad Blood, Shake it Off. I have been hearing these on the radio for as long as I can remember, to the point where the lyrics are engraved in my mind.
When I played Blank Space (Taylor’s Version) when it was released for the first time on October 27th, and heard those first notes play, the nostalgia was unreal. It was almost as if I was a young girl again- the song I had grown up listening to once again belonged to my favorite artist, which was an exhilarating feeling. This renewed opportunity allowed me to experience firsthand what it was like to relive the music hits of the past, anticipating the new tones and voices. I ended up loving the way Taylor integrated her old songs with new sounds and ideas, and I found them even more enticing than before.
Her choice to include six new songs was even more significant, as it provided a new obsession for swifties everywhere. “Is it Over Now” hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, and quickly became a popular sound on tiktok, and the new favorite song of the album for many, including me. The album overall represents the musical memories of 2014, but in a matured, beautiful way, and allows listeners to relisten with a fresh mind and ears. The contemporary feel and the modernized beats make for a fantastic album that contains music of all emotion, and encapsulates the true beauty of Taylor Swift, and the immense impact she has on listeners worldwide.
