Red by Taylor Swift

Swift, T. (2012). Red [CD]. Nashville, TN: Big Machine Records. UPC 843930007110 

 

Summary and Evaluation

Taylor Swift started her music career as a self-proclaimed "pop country" singer/songwriter.  On her newest album, Red, the "country" aspect of that formula is a bit more muted and the "pop" is far more pronounced.  Singles like "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together" are power pop explosions that sarcastically recall a relationship in which she now realizes her boyfriend was overbearing, insulting, and full of himself.  The song is funny and empowering.  More importantly, it is catchy.  Incredibly catchy.  This song almost challenges you to get it out of your head once you've heard it.

"I Knew You Were Trouble" marks a slight departure in that it plays with dubstep aspects, making it a poppy, dance-driven song that strays pretty far from country music.  It, like the previous single, is a pop song on the highest plain of pop songs.  These videos have 100+ million views on YouTube each, showing their popularity and the fact that Swift shows no sign of slowing down anytime soon.

Interest Age

Swift lyrics that recall high school and relationship troubles, her young age, and her popularity all ensure the interest of high schoolers.

Reason Selected

I wrote Taylor Swift a bit too quickly when I first heard her music, but after having several of her songs stuck in my head after hearing them on the radio or when I am out running errands I have come to discover that there is something uniquely catchy about her songs.  On top of this, her extreme popularity with teenage girls especially cannot be denied.  In addition Red has been listed on many high profile year end "best of" lists including Associated Press, Rolling Stone, Idolator, and The New York Times (Wikipedia).

References

Red (Taylor Swift album). (n.d.). In Wikipedia. Retrieved April 2, 2013, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Red_(Taylor_Swift_album)