The year 1989 was one for the books with events such as the fall of the Berlin Wall, George Bush becoming President and the birth of Taylor Swift. It is also the title of one of Swift’s most notable albums. Now in 2023, fans get to relive the excitement of its release again with the re-recorded version. It became an instant hit with fans and saw Swift becoming the most streamed artist and 1989 (Taylor’s version) the most popular album in a single day on Spotify.
Has the album changed too much from the original version? Some people have criticized the alterations to tracks like 'New Romantics' and 'Style'.
Nevertheless, Swift does not let us down, she has style! Not only are the original tracks re-recorded to perfection, but the addition of 5 new vault tracks takes listeners through an emotional journey all over again. Each of the vault tracks is unique and hints at Swift’s turbulent love life. It is difficult to pick a favourite but the standout track has to be ‘Say Don’t Go.’ The song is about wishing your lover would ask you to stay, after they have led you on and walked away. The lyrics “Why’d you have to lead me on?” and “I’m yours, but you're not mine” will certainly resonate with many fans!
Another perhaps underrated vault track is ‘Suburban Legends’. With its themes of betrayal, the song talks about two lovers who struggle to stay together in their Suburban town. The lyrics “you kissed me in a way that's gonna screw me up forever,” hint at lost love and dreams of a life together which is no longer possible.
Popularised on TikTok, 'Is It Over Now?' and 'Now That We Don't Talk' are the most addictive tracks. ‘Now That We Don’t Talk’, is the shortest of the vault tracks but certainly packs a punch, with the beat slowly building up to the powerful chorus, making you want to dance the minute it starts. ‘Is it Over Now?’ is one of those songs that you could quite easily blast out loud for hours and definitely showcases Swift’s musical talent for writing impactful bridges it being reminiscent of Lover’s ‘Cruel Summer’.
What I love most about the album is its variety. The album definitely represents a more polished version of the original and embodies the maturity that age has added to Swift’s music.
Overall, 1989 (Taylor’s Version) is a masterpiece, emphasising Swift’s growth whilst maintaining the roots of the original. It may be the best of the re-recorded albums so far and leaves Swifties in awe asking 'Is it Over Now?’
Edited by Anna Cao