As Taylor Swift readies the release of “1989 (Taylor’s Version),” we explore the stories and inspirations behind the songs on her blockbuster 2014 album that cemented her pop superstardom.
Swift’s fifth album “1989” marked a decisive shift from her country roots into sleek pop production. She shed her past musical identity for a bold new era.
At the time, Swift was tired of speculation about recycling old styles, telling Popcrush, “I don’t have the option of making music that sounds just like what I’ve done before. People will see right through it.”
Even when her label pressed for some country songs, Swift refused. She knew she had to commit fully to reinventing her sound.
That vision earned “1989” critical acclaim and made it Swift’s best-selling album ever with over 15 million copies sold globally. It also won the Grammy for Album of the Year.
As Swift releases “1989 (Taylor’s Version),” we revisit the stories behind its era-defining songs.
“Welcome to New York” immediately announces the album’s new dawn. Swift wrote it after moving to New York City and feeling the freedom of exploring life in a new place. The synth-pop anthem embraces reinvention.
“Blank Space” satirizes the media portraying Swift as a “psycho serial dater” through parody lyrics like “darling, I’m a nightmare dressed like a daydream.” She flips the script on her public image with wit.
Rumored to be about Harry Styles, “Style” finds Swift maturing past black-and-white views of relationships. Her admission of infidelity shows new willingness to acknowledge moral complexities.
On the emotional centerpiece “All You Had To Do Was Stay,” Swift pleads in the chorus “let me remind you this was what you wanted.” Piano ballad vulnerability balances out the more defiant bangers.
“Shake It Off” became an instant cultural phenomenon. Swift takes on the role of cheerleader, encouraging everyone to ignore haters and channel their inner dancer. Its self-empowerment ethos dominated radio.
“Bad Blood” throws delicious shade at an unnamed female rival, strongly hinted to be Katy Perry. The two pop juggernauts’ feud only intensified the anticipation around Swift’s musical evolution.
With its bold reinvention, honest self-reflection, and expert songwriting, “1989” cemented Swift’s place in the pop pantheon. It traded Nashville’s country twang for the sound of an artist coming into her own.
