I understand 1989’s critical success. It was literally created with that in that mind (making it one of her smartest albums). But do think I it’s her best, no, because it’s her least confessional and contains probably the least RAW emotion—which is where she EXCELLS as a lyricist. 1989 had to be catchy, profitable pop because it was her first full attempt at a genre switch. Songs had to be short with good hooks to gather a wide audience, something even people that HATED her would enjoy (how much praise did she get from people that belittled her success during the 1989 circuit?). With reputation, it seemed even while she was “playing a character” it was true to form. Lyrics first. Production and music second. There are very little lyrics on 1989 with any long lasting emotional impact on me “out of the woods” gets close, “this love”, “clean”, and “you are in love” (which was sadly a DELUXE track) ALMOST get me to the previous emotional heights of RED but stops short. 1989 was a processed, packaged product, a power move for Taylor to achieve critical success, to grow as an artist, and move on from her country past and it opened the doors for reputation and Lover. I will love 1989 forever for that. It’s a beautiful pop album. I’m not discrediting it. It’s just a felt a little empty after I heard the album and got past the newness of it all. Though, “shake it off” will never let me down—it may be the best pop song of all time. No debate.
