Taylor sWIFT’S unexpected album, “midnights”

BY LIAM GILLIN (HE/HIM)

What was Taylor Swift going to do this time? No lead single released prior to “Midnights.” No 10 second preview of any single for TikTok. Taylor Swift kept fans on their feet for two months since her “Midnights” announcement at the 2022 VMAs. Now that Midnights is here, all that can be said is no one expected this dark, electric sound from Swift. 

If Taylor Swift will give her audience anything it is her constant vulnerability.  Over the years fans have seen her evolve from a teen country pop star to becoming one of the most successful singer/songwriters of this generation. “Midnights” is an album of revenge and accountability. As Swift said that the album came as a result of ``13 sleepless nights scattered throughout my life.” “Midnights” let's audiences into Taylor’s updated perspective on love and the scrutiny she receives in the media as someone who has spent her entire adult life in the public eye. 

COURTESY OF TAYLOR SWIFT VIA REPUBLIC RECORDS

“Midnights” starts off strong with the opening single “Lavender Haze.” The single breaks down speculations of her long term relationship and the media’s pressure to get married. She sings “I’ve been under scrutiny, you handle it beautifully.” showing that the healthy dynamics of her current relationship has helped her handle the ongoing media scrutiny. “Lavender Haze” symbolizes the peace she feels in her relationship and how she has learned to not let the media define her personal relationships. 

What is intriguing about this album is Taylor Swift sampling her old music into the singles on “Midnights.” Singles like “Maroon” and “You’re On Your Own Kid” can take people back to the Fearless, Lover, and Reputation eras. Swift’s sampling of her old albums into “Midnights” shows how nostalgia can make a song and her evolution as an artist.  

“Anti-Hero” is intended to be the leading single off of “Midnights.” The song is about being a good person suffering with low self esteem and fearing they are being taken advantage of by society. Currently the single is becoming the newest TikTok audio trend with the lyrics “Hi it’s me/I’m the problem, it’s me.” “Anti-Hero” will be screamed at sold out stadiums all over the world.

Taylor Swift’s music video for her single “Anti-Hero.”

“Midnights” is another successful Taylor Swift album. For the past 16 years, Swift has kept fans on their toes as her lyricism continues to mature. Taylor Swift’s work has always been able to relate to multiple demographics and is always taking her audience on a joy ride.