Isabella Madrid, Reporter
@imadridcourant
Olivia Carofano, Reporter
@ocarofano32144
The 1989 album originally coming out in 2014 was a pivotal moment in her career debuting her official transition from country to pop. She became known as THE pop star and each iconic song from the 1989 era reminds us of our childhood. When I hear the iconic songs from the album I’m in the backseat of my mom’s car on my way home from 2nd grade. Needless to say, we had high expectations.
The first listen is a journey back in time, but it quickly becomes apparent that this is not merely a trip down memory lane; it’s a celebration of growth, resilience, and the power of creative ownership. While undergoing the first listen we were especially struck by the evolution of Taylor Swift’s vocals. Her voice, already beautiful in the original album, now carries the weight of experience and maturity. The raw emotion, and the added depth to her personal experience from her amazing vault tracks create something truly special. Here are our opinions on some stand out tracks and let downs.
Isabella’s favorite’s
- Clean (Taylor’s Version): 1000/10 have taken flight with the seagulls after hearing this version. The vocal maturity and increased background tracks.
- Shake it Off (Taylor’s Version): 9/10 such an iconic song from this era, glad it wasn’t botched, like some of my old faves. The vocals sound more mature but the song didn’t change too much.
- Now That We Don’t Talk (Taylor’s Version) [From the Vault]: 10/10 Every vault track released has me questioning why they weren’t released the first time around, but this song especially. The lyrics have become really popular across Tik Tok, as people are replacing them with their own things they don’t have to pretend to like anymore because of their significant other. The relatability between Taylor and her fan’s personal experience is in my opinion what makes her so popular.
Isabella Let Down’s
- Out Of The Woods (Taylor’s Version): I prefer the original version. Such a big let down because I love the original version. The background vocals on the bridge mute the absolute genius of the bridge of the song.
- Style (Taylor’s Version): 5/10 I definitely have to warm up to the extreme changes. My initial thoughts were that I am extremely disappointed. This is a top tier song, I low key skip in when it comes on in my car because it sounds like a Kidz Bop Version. The changed intro also does not help its case.
Olivia’s Faves:
- Is it Over Now? ( Taylor’s Version): 10/10 I love this song. I feel that this should have been released on the original album because it is THAT GOOD. Personally I feel that this song is the best vault track and I can listen to this song 1000 times and would not get sick of it.
- You Are In Love (Taylor’s Version): 10/10 This song is my childhood.
Oliva’s Least Fave’s:
- Bad Blood (Taylor’s Version): 0/10 I have never liked this song and I never will. Everytime I hear it I skip through it. It might be catchy but I just can’t listen to it without gagging.
- Style (Taylor’s Version): 4/10 I loved the stolen version of this song but Taylor’s Version just didnt hit whatsover. The sound is totally different and I had high hopes but this was just a total let down.
Final thoughts: As Taylor’s version continues to captivate audiences, it solidifies her status not only as a musical powerhouse but as an artist who refuses to let her story be dictated by anyone but herself. #queen
