How could "Midnights" be my favorite Taylor Swift Album?!? Review

[@chloeheung]

I love the way you said people who don‘t like this album probably only like their idea of her music

[@sarivah_musicdiary]

Or maybe they just enjoy different things in music... Syncopation, unusual harmonies, chord progressions, bass lines and such? I really wanted to like this album because I like her as a person and I believe her lyrics can be good. But her music is just not my cup of tea. It's the kind of music that makes me feel suffocated when I hear it in the supermarkets. So square it makes my round mind hurt...

[@rollypratt642]

He is spilling tea everywhere and honestly someone had to ☕️

[@chloeheung]

@@sarivah_musicdiary yes sure everyone has different tastes. I think "people only likes their idea of her music" is also a way to say people have different tastes in music. it just focuses more on the mindset of swifties who don't like this album. Maybe in their mind they have a perception of what Taylor's music should sound like.

[@sirsimonthesentry4787]

@@sarivah_musicdiary I hear you. I want to like Ed Sheeran, HAIM, and a few others but I haven’t been able to get there . I keep trying but I might never get there. I do love folklore, and evermore, maybe because when they came out, I was in a really hard place and they helped me. They let me cry, and they were very healing for me. What is pleasing to one person’s ear, isn’t to another.

[@khoavo510]

@@chloeheung though when it was phrased like that it makes it sounds like the fans who didn't vibe with this album as much as many others are not "true fans" instead of simply the case of them might not like the new sound due to people's different tastes in sounds. As an example, I've been a fan of Taylor since her Speak Now days and I couldn't vibe with many reputation songs (arguably THE fan favorite album of hers) because I don't really like the sound she was going for on many tracks. So does that makes me not a fan of hers and only like the idea of her music? Imo, no, I'm still her fan and I still get excited about new album releases, I just don't like certain things and that is ok.

[@StephanieAly]

Swiftie here - you hit the nail on the head when it comes to certain Swifties hating on Midnights. There’s a clash rn between fans who have been around for a while and a subsection of fans who came into the fandom bc of everlore and aren’t used to her genre shifts. If you’ve been around for a while (or even if you came in at everlore and went back and listened), you understand that Midnights is just as true to Taylor as every other album she’s done, both lyrically and in terms of her continued evolution as an artist.

[@estrellasalazar5329]

yess yes and yess, I became a fan this year (crazy) but I became a fan thanks to All too well 10tm, and then Reputation, how? Tiktok lmao. I began with Rep, (1 whole month or more) then speak now, and then folklore, I fell in love with all of those, I jumped to Fearless and Red and at the end I discovered 1989 and Evermore. I am a new swiftie but I am in love with Midnights because I am a Tay fan all albums together. As an extra note I would say Midnights is the kind of album that gets better with every listen and at first look maybe you wouldnt fall in love, (that is what happened to me at least) I liked some songs and others did not get me, but i listened to them again and I understood, now im completely in love with it, binging all day

[@kerennoyman1988]

Who are the swifties that don't like Midnights?!?! I'd fight with them. Honestly I've been a fan for 12 years and I guess when RED, 1989 and reputation came out I was really confused by the change in music and I guess at this point I just 100% trust Taylor , I know she just knows what she's doing

[@StephanieAly]

@@estrellasalazar5329 I've been a fan since the beginning and was relieved at the genre shifting that started with Red bc I'm not really a country person, and now I just get excited with each new album to see which genre it's going to be. Like you said, some are definitely growers! Rep and Lover took me the longest to vibe with, idk why - it was really only this year that I found myself going to them as often as I do her other albums. I fell in love with the sound of Midnights immediately but needed a few listens to really appreciate a couple of the songs. I'm glad I made a rule this time to listen to the album without skips for the first week bc I think that was my problem with Rep and Lover!

[@StephanieAly]

@@kerennoyman1988 Right?? And now I get excited about the genre switching, like what's she going to tackle next? It's also nice bc it truly means there's an album for all of my moods

[@tudormiller887]

Yep! I was there right from her first album. Speak Now is her best album for sure.

[@axlgzrdmattick]

Wow 1 hour and 11 minutes of prof sky talking about Taylor Swift? Amazing.

[@JoaoPedro-lb6mr]

talk about walking backwards

[@chitranshubehra1794]

@@JoaoPedro-lb6mr why? The album is great she's is an amazing artist why be salty?

[@lanceperez194]

I feel like alot of people have cried to “Anti-Hero”. I had a good round of catharsis to it last night. Which to me is the true hallmark of a great song.

[@mamab4720]

A doctor whom I hold a lot of respect for here on KZbin (channel @Dr. Ramini) specializes in educating on narcissism, and narcissistic abuse. She was giving props to Taylor on her channel for the song "anti-hero". Taylor has dated her share of narcissists, she's told us through numerous songs over the past decade and sadly she has also told us how she's suffered. Now through her music, she is educating us all.

[@annaarampatzis1079]

I only discovered Taylor Swift after the release of Red TV last year, but I have since fallen in love with her music, her lyricism, her humor and her overall artistry. I can telI you cried at the very same bits as you did, and for exactly the same reasons.

[@estrellasalazar5329]

just like mee, since Red TV

[@mollymccracken2740]

Swiftie here, I am loving this album! I haven’t heard the criticism yet. Im grateful for that 😅

[@Xxxbloom11]

I’m so glad you like it. I think a lot of the people who don’t like it were new fans from the folklore/evermore era. They forget she never continues to make the same music, she changes her sound like every album. She’s weird and cheesy and that’s why a lot of us love her!!! I’ve been a fan since 2008 and Red was my favorite album, but I think it’s midnights now! Thanks for the review!!

[@Xxxbloom11]

Also! Thank you for saying there’s really no difference except for the instruments. I’ve been trying to explain that to some friends of mine. A lot of people are acting like the writing declined from folklore but I’d argue the writing is just as good, if not better. She knows how to write a song!!

[@Xxxbloom11]

Sorry I feel like I’m writing a twitter thread! Last comment! But yes, I agree, you should listen to reputation!!!

[@joaquinlopeztorres1071]

why if someone doesn't like an album there has to be an explanation or excuse for it as if it's wrong not to enjoy something?? maybe ppl just didn't find this record all that interesting/good and that's fair, just as much as someone who liked it. gatekeeping Taylor Swift has to be one of the lamest things to do

[@marabu_00]

I think there are 2 types of Taylor fans: those who understand and appreciate her continuous musical direction change and those who are fans of a certain Taylor specific genre. I think the key to her evergrowing success so far into her career (besides her sheer talent) is that with each change in her music she garners new fans. The downside to that is that those fans then expect the same type of album in her next project.

[@hollybeck605]

I think you hit the nail on the head with your description of Swifties loving her because a lot of us have grown up with her. She spoke directly into our brains when we were young and silly and just obsessed with love. And now she speaks to us as we're older and more mature and it's like we've all grown up with each other. We've gotten as excited about her songs singing about Romeo and Juliet as you have gotten about this album because you connected to it so much. I noticed you haven't reviewed 1989 or Reputation. Her two most pop albums before this one. I'll be interested to see your reviews when she re-records. I do have to disagree with you on the earworm thing. I have been singing "It's me! Hi! I'm the problem. It's me!" since the second I first listened to this album at midnight. I can't get out of my brain. 🤣 But the self-depreciating nature of it speaks to me. Genuinely hope it makes it to the radio. Karma btw may have been a miss for you but for us she was f*cking with us. The word itself has to do with a long long rabbit hole of theories probably mostly on Tiktok and Reddit that fans have been deep diving into since Reputation. It's why when she announced the song during one of her late night title drops she laughed maniacally. She's clowning us hard and we love her for it. Sweet Nothing wasn't my favorite but another background is that it was the only song she wrote with Joe her actor long term boyfriend (songs about him date back to Reputation) It's sweet and feels very pure. But that probably matches their point their at in their 7+year relationship. It shows they're content and fulfilled. And your excitement about this album... I got to be honest... It kind of sounds like you're a swiftie. 😉 Sidenote: thanks for being so vulnerable here! 🫂 My favorite songs of all time: Speak Now: Enchanted and Long Live, Fearless: Forever and always. Red: Holy Ground, and All Too Well (10 min). 1989: Style, Wildest Dreams, Clean. Rep: Getaway Car and King of my Heart. Lover: Death by a Thousand Cuts. Folklore: half the album. Evermore: again like half the album. Midnights is my first no-skip album from her so favs are undecided/slightly impossible. 😁

[@rileygarrett8541]

Don’t worry about mixing up Folklore & Evermore! Lots of us Swifties just refer to them together as “Folkmore” too, it’s quicker lol

[@mathfreak2521]

Or everfolk like he said 😂

[@Ash1ey_31a1ne]

It's so satisfying to hear someone gush over this album. Swiftie or not, you get it & getting it is what matters. I'd love to hear your thoughts on the 3am tracks.

[@avapaine5516]

HI UNKIE :D as a wicked smart niece...loved the review! keep it up, sending love

[@EricAriel5]

I’m a Swiftie and I love the album. I think people think everything she does has to be a sad,deep lyric and not anything happy. Well I listen to melody AND the lyrics. She doesn’t have a bad album,she has a way with words regardless if the song is country,pop or synth pop,etcAaron Dessner worked on the 3am edition tracks. If someone is just listening to the sound,you’re missing the lyrics,which when you listen to TS you must pay attention to lyrics.

[@onassa1478]

If you compare her lyricism in Speak Now, 1989, Red, or even Lover and Reputation which sound the most similar to Midnights, still Midnights is not her best album lyrically. And melodies and production wise, well, have you paid attention to 1989 production?????

[@lherz13]

Swiftie here--why is this my favorite review of taylor's discography ever?? you definitely earned my subscription 😊 two noteworthy quotes from the beginning of your video: @6:05 , @7:37 "she is a better artist than even her biggest fans really understand."💯

[@ozark885]

Fans who have been with her understand

[@5880041]

Huge swiftie, all the other reactions I watch are like eating candy for a sugar rush, but I always look forward to professor sky’s review because it is more like a filling healthy meal

[@lherz13]

@@5880041 that is an excellent analogy. Like I feel satiated 🤩

[@Paulaynfanzon]

Considering the countless records that midnights just broke, I don't think most of swifties hate it.

[@Augustforever13]

In my Braziling corner of her fandom it’s a huge hit! I loved it to an overwhelming degree hahaha when I finished listening to it at almost 2am here, I had to lay down in bed in the dark in silence for 30 minutes, I think my ADHD brain was a bit overstimulated… I had a viceral reaction to it and I’ve been a fan since Speak Now (2010), it’s such a textured album, is like you can experience it with all senses… ps.: I really do think you’re a swiftie 😂❤

[@carlosdavidefreitas3977]

Lembro que quando vazou tava todo mundo descendo o cacete nele, depois que lançou oficialmente foi só aclamação(isso pq ouviram só a superfície do disco). E isso aconteceu com o RENAISSANCE da Beyoncé também, idêntico. Depois que vêem os números, as críticas caem.

[@chamiverse5076]

It broke tons of records and is about to debut with 1M+ copies.

[@Maggielesetoiles6]

Your reviews are THE BEST! Thank you so much! It seems that you’re becoming a swiftie in the same way I became one - highly recommend listening to Speak Now (but only when she re-releases it) FearlessTV and RedTV

[@Maggielesetoiles6]

But also lavender haze is my other favorite on the album!!😅 😝

[@AbigailGrayse]

I know you said the 3am version is for swifties, but those extra songs are so well done. It’s worth the listen.

[@guineverer23]

I liked this review. I was also really moved by You’re On Your Own Kid and Mastermind, and I adored her candor in admitting her pathological need to control everything and everyone, and her admission that this behavior is rooted in her childhood trauma and loneliness. I liked your analysis of Labyrinth; you brought out some themes that I missed. I will enjoy bringing that perspective to my next listen of the song. The thing I enjoy most about Taylor Swift is the lyricism, although I also think she writes beautiful melodies and creates epic harmonies, etc, etc. I enjoy Jack’s production too, and I was happy to get a whole album of them together. I’m not sure yet, but I think this album may wind up at the top of my ranking of her catalog (to date). It feels like she is evolving so quickly now. Each album seems better than the last. I feel sorry for the fans and other listeners who don’t appreciate this one. She is experimenting so much, stretching herself vocally, thematically…playing with production elements and style, and bringing all the elements of her previous successes to bear in this album which seems to synthesize all of it so coherently. It is a greedy thing to say considering we just got this gem, but I can’t wait to find out what comes next. Anyway, nice review. I can tell you are appreciating her more and more from album to album, which is what happened for me too. I think you will like some of the bonus tracks, but I actually agree with you that the core 13 stand alone just fine without them. Of the bonus tracks, Bigger Than The Whole Sky, The Great War and Glitch are my favorites. There are some who feel that Bigger Than The Whole Sky might be about experiencing a miscarriage. I don’t know if that’s true, but this theory tracks very well with the lyrics and tone, and the song really beautifully captures that experience. That reading did enhance my experience of the song. Thank you for a really thoughtful review.

[@lizisblonde]

Labyrinth is my favorite track from the album as well! I feel like people skip over it, it's so ethereal and beautiful and her repetition of "oh no, I'm falling in love"/distortion of her voice truly FEELS like dreaming/sleeplessness.

[@brandiking2045]

I’ll comment again for the algorithm because the 7 extra songs are EPIC!! I actually prefer those songs to the main album. If you appreciate the depth of her lyricism in her long-term relationship, “The Great War” is an amazingly real song about bringing the past into a current relationship. Definitely, definitely worth the listen. She actually commented on the “extra” piece. She said that the main album is perfect and cohesive and complete as it is, though she wanted to share everything they created to get to those 13 songs. I think it’s such a beautiful addition to this album so much that they truly feel they belong together. Okay, end rant! Hoping for that analysis haha!

[@lonesapphire]

I love Taylor's lyrics about her solid relationship. It reminds me so much of when I met my husband and truly learned what love really is. Not a miserable, stressful passionate thing but a beautiful, serene place where you're safe to be vulnerable. I was in an abusive relationship before and my idea of love was really messed up. So I love this grown up approach to an honest loving relationship. I can really relate to it.

[@_khorshid]

What you said about "You're on your own kid" was the best review I have heard about a song.

[@professorskye]

Thanks for the kind words

[@Larissa-xu9ux]

After watching your video I had to go back to the album and listen to (and digest) it all over again. This morning I was watching your Motomami video, just wondering if you were going to post something about Midnights. So yeah, it was a wonderful surprise when I saw your video. "You're on your own, kid" is so beautiful, it makes me emotional too. I just want to say that I really appreciate your channel. I'm always revisiting your Evermore video (and also the ones about stromae, rosalia...).

[@Jquinn718]

Professor Skye….we got you to that 10k 🎉🤭 see you again soon!

[@achillessings4428]

This is so therapeutic! I also love that you noticed the dream pop association.

[@upscaleavenue]

I appreciate your reflections. You have a very thorough knowledge and awareness of sound. It's refreshing to a hear a more intellectual and personal reflection on her work, rather than the glib and melodramatic attitudes of so many music reviews on here. I also resonated with your comments on the theme of vulnerability. I agree, and I would add that it's also a meditation on play and on having fun - so many people either take her too seriously, or they don't take her seriously at all. Art created at midnight isn't supposed to be taken seriously; it may be your best work, but it may not be. She seems to be calling attention to the reality that when people take art too seriously, they fail to fully appreciate it.

[@elisamaer9914]

What a wonderful , insightful review ! Thank you so much.

[@MatthewDAgostino]

Loved your review (and your dogs). Your impressions really resonated with me. Atmosphere and restraint, that really is the formula that makes this record shine. Love it. Thanks for an hour 6 minutes of quality content.

[@tekken4granted913]

*I have been her fan since 2006 and those who hates the album are shallow fans. Or are they really a fan? I was shocked in my initial listen cause it was sooooo different. Then I fell in love with it. I am just blessed that I (and hardcore fans like me) to get new music from her. Her discography is sooo diverse, you can only love each song and album. No need to compare.*

[@nickh5021]

I would consider myself a Swiftie and this could be my favorite album. This, reputation, and evermore are my top albums. I need more time with it so that the novelty of the new album goes away and its also competing with the nostalgia factors that reputation and evermore have for me.

[@quentinmartini683]

Watched the review with my mom (she LOVES Taylor Swift) and she was cracking up at your jokes and yelling “Yes he gets it”! At the screen. You earned a new fan yesterday

[@professorskye]

That’s great!

[@farhanasafran8124]

Your videos always feel like the recording of a live lecture that your tech inept professor uploads 3 seconds after the live ends and idk that's so soothing to me

[@mamab4720]

Congratulations on the new little one! Thank you for the great review. I am a later-in-life (GenX) Swiftie I love this album! In "Labyrinth" she uses pieces of the speech she gave when she received her honorary doctorate of fine arts in May from NYU. She told the new grads "breathe in, breathe through, breathe deep, breathe out."

[@froil8489]

Midnights is one of Taylor's most mature albums and some people aren't ready for that conversation. I've been meaning to encapsulate my feelings on a broad scale about Midnights by reading comments and threads but people are hyper focused on comparisons and a "pop" moment or a "chorus" or "bridge" moment. That's the Taylor Swift staple. I get it. But you gotta take in art as it is served. It's normal to make comparisons but it can't be all one can do to fully take in an album. It's a personal opinion but most people have completely glossed over the album in its essence. Midnights is a very mature turn for Taylor's songwriting and sound. Probably even more than Folklore and Evermore, I feel. On those two, she was telling stories yet she maintained a familiarity which breeds in the rest of her discography, like a good bridge or a rambunctious melody or structure or chorus. The lyrics are like poetry. Midnights is purely confessional. It's unfiltered. It's Taylor Swift being herself without the boundaries of what people expect from her, I feel. A woman with a past. A woman who has seen life and also has a lot of growing up to do (as we all do). She's unabashedly herself in her late night musings. She's vulnerable. She's carefree. It's not a sonically perfect album because she didn't want it to be. It's raw and honest. I'm so frustrated with people comparing this with the rest of her legacy and forming opinions based on it. They are attacking Jack Antonoff for not lending a mature sound. Maturity isn't defined in music that rigidly. People have biases. I really like this record because it truly feels like she just went for it barring the notion that she needs to make a "type" of music to connect with people and be successful. She just made the album with synth sounds because that's the vibe she was going for and JA is well known for it. She was probably, in my opinion, balancing the vulnerability/honesty/rawness with the synth production on most tracks because she didn't want people to look at her through only one vision. So she expanded the musical landscape. Art is raw. It's not made for comparisons and irrelevant discussions of what people expect and what people get. It seems to me, that TS subverted expectations so much that most people are bewildered and taken aback and are forming opinions based on that! That's not how you listen to music people! Taylor is an artist. She's her own person. She's gonna evolve her style. People are expecting her to do the same thing they like and also surprise them within the limits of their own consumption of music, that's the worst way of listening to her music or any music as a matter of fact.

[@gyatiangel]

THIS!!!! F**king thank you. All the words I couldn't speak but what I wanted to say!!! Wish I could repost this on every single negative shallow prejudiced comment. I wish people would actually give this album a chance and not go on it with a preconceived notion. Every album of her deserved an era of its own so why not midnight? I mean how can you compare speak now to evermore? Or reputation to fearless? Why is poppy taylor not as good as folky taylor? I would even go far to say poppy one is my favoured but all in all doesn't mean you get to hate on her new work just because they aren't what you expected. Not true fans..... She has put so much blood work and tears on this she should be crowned and applauded for this gift that she shares with us. Ugh.. Entitlement of some 'swifties' makes me nauseous and mad as hell

[@froil8489]

@@gyatiangelthe way that people who are forming opinions based on what they expect out of Taylor and then getting disappointed is really frustrating tbh. The entitlement is really off the charts. I mean, TS is her own person lmao, she isn't making music for anyone's sake or expectations. It's okay to expect certain things but to put it in between what one feels about the album singularly is really immature.

[@gerardovazquez6441]

This record is musically irrelevant. Regarding the lyrics, I hate confessional art because it appeals appeals to the sick side of curiosity Your morbidity is the largest capital that TS has People who don't read poetry call anything poetry

[@witchspace-yt]

Thankyou for this, thought provoking, informative and I have to agree with most of it. The callouts on the precision of the intentional restraint feels so on point. We know all too wel from Lover that when needed Jack is a master of bringing things to anthemic climaxes, but it was so impressive seeing the pair deliberately holding back to heighten the delivery.

[@zubooks]

Great reaction, thank you! I have just listened to Midnights once, but I liked it a lot. Those synthesizers are pretty great. I think Mastermind might be my favourite for now. Up until now, I'd been listening a lot to This love and Clean, from her 1989 album. I like both of them for their dream-like quality, which I'm reminded of a bit in some parts of Midnights. I think you might like them too.

[@brandiking2045]

As a “swiftie” that adopted that term during the folklore/evermore era, I had a really mixed reaction to this album. It’s been growing and growing and growing with more listens. I prefer dark and moody and soft songs so the pop felt meh. The songs take a while to “shimmer” 😂 I loved this review!! Thank you 💗 Also congrats on the baby! I have a 6 month old and ruined my sleep schedule for this album release 😅

[@karenpaolalopes9524]

Professor Skye as a die hard Swiftie I hereby declare YOU ARE SWIFTIE!!

[@estrellasalazar5329]

And u hit 10k at just 1 day! We are begging for the 7 extra tracks

[@petermaclean8880]

Labyrinth? The best? Yes. I think this video and I will get along well. Like. We don’t always, but I always enjoy very much what you do, thanks.

[@THOMASC516]

Glad "Midnights" brought me here to you. Subcribed! 🙂 As to my favorite song (it's hard to say exactly but... if we are talking about the standard 13 tracks,) "You're on Your Own Kid" hits home with me. I'm sure it's due to my own history. (The Lavender edition has a bonus song, "Hits Different" which would take the crown, for me, if it had been one of the 'baker's dozen.')

[@sweetporcupine56]

Your explanation of Labyrinth was so helpful! I wanted to really love that one when she announced the track titles because I have a tattoo of a labyrinth and they’re full of very important symbolism for me, but when I first listened to it I just didn’t get it at all. I can definitely appreciate it more now even if it’s probably not going to be my favorite.

[@Violet316]

I have been a fan since her first album, Midnights took me a couple of listens, the first listen, my brain couldn't wrap around it at midnight, but I felt I needed to give it a second listen. So after a good night's sleep, I listened to some more than twice, and so glad I did.

[@ThisIsMeMorgan]

Wow. I came In a Swiftie and I’m leaving a Prof Skyeftie (bad joke I know). I LOVE your love of music. It is just oozing out of you and this is what the industry is missing. People are allowed to criticize music but I feel like it often comes from a holier than thou perspective, where they know the cool stuff the stuff that ACTUALLY sounds good and so this is bad. But your love of music itself just fills this entire discussion with so much passion! I feel like you hit the nail on the head with the idea that the release of Folklore and Evermore caused some people to think “oh she’s making REAL music now” they delegitimize her other work and see this album as bad because she turned away from the “REAL” music she just made and when back to pop, when the artistry is still here and thriving. I am a Swiftie who is also incredibly happily in love and Sweet Nothing had me balling like a baby. The line “on the way home I wrote a poem, you say ‘what a mind’ this happens all the time” is what set me off. The feeling of finding the someone who fully appreciates you, your talents, your quirks, your YOUNESS is euphoric. That emotion tied with the atmosphere is stunning and I can’t help but tear up every time.

[@Artisian12656]

The album is getting awesome reviews from major critics & breaking sales records. Too bad for the haters. Anyway, I appreciate your video & your honesty. (I'm also happy for you that you found someone to make you happy) Lastly, as a long time OG Swiftie, my fave album is always going to be Speak Now.

[@yvetterodriguez2550]

@ 41:52 speaking of a painful relationship, listen to WCS (Would've Could've Should've). It came off as a really personal and painful song to write into words and somehow create a song about that experience. That shit not only makes me cry but it also angers me that there are people out there who have had the same experience as she did and are still dealing with that kind of pain. A pain that no one can heal. A wound that can never close. The kind of pain you will carry for the rest of your life. She sets the tone and imagery for that song when you go see the lyric video for it. As she goes on telling her pain, you can hear how her sadness grows into anger to then finishing off by what it felt like a big F U to that person she was speaking of. It's such a powerful, profound and heartbreaking song. That to me stood out from the entire album.

[@Sssighh]

This review made me cry. Your piece on Mastermind cuts right to the heart of it all.

[@dreameroptimist02]

I can't believe how much I agree with you. And yess of course it's one of her best projects ever, arguably her best. I felt really connected with you coz I also cried listening to the track5 you're on your own kid. It hurt me too, that song seriously hits home. From my first listen of the album, track 5 is top rank. And of course mastermind and AntiHero. And she is a people pleaser personality type person, just like she said in mirrorball. Mastermind made me teared up too but then the last chorus made me feel so happy for her. Finally she found the one who love her for who she is. I love your videos, you're smart. And about vigilante shitt, after the first time i heard i was really thinking about your reaction to it. Coz I liked it, people are saying the Billie eilish thing, i mean i can see that but that song is more than just that. And you also agreed. That's really cool. And yesss labyrinth!! I loved it so much. It feels so dreamy like an escape room and yess the organs and synthesizer. I love it. Loved you review. I agreed with you mostly. Thank u so much

[@neontyler6663]

This album really reminded me Lorde’s Melodrama so much ! And i love it ❤❤❤

[@ArgoBargo]

Love the way you talk about artists

[@StephanieAly]

Now that I’ve listened to all of it - really appreciate your perspective! I’d be curious to know if your overall perception of Vigilante Shit and Karma (thematically) would change looking at them through the perspective of he battle with Scooter Braun. Vigilante Shit feels similar to Billie, yes, but it also feels like a direct descendant of Reputation for me and is obviously about Scooter specifically

[@bluaurora8635]

As a Swiftie I am so in love with this album!!!!! Maybe my favorite!!!! On first listen I wasn’t sure though, also I had a raging day long headache and it was midnight and I was very tired. But after a few listens it just keeps getting better and I’m in awe.

[@claudinem6207]

OMG I’m late to the party but….Thank you. I’m here for Taylor’s journey and I don’t care what genre she sings. I’m 100 percent in love with all her albums for different reasons. 👏

[@miniminimoni]

just finished! great insights ❤ i love when people appreciate and understand her artistry because most just focus on the subject of her songs instead of how these songs were actually crafted. and i knoooow you said you won’t review/listen to the 3 am tracks but i really really really think “could’ve would’ve should’ve” is a must listen 👀 just check it out!

[@enolamo526]

What a wonderful analysis, I'm going to relisten with these new perspectives and cry again yes

[@farahaiman94]

Hi Prof. I’ve been a Swiftie since 2007, and I was 13 year old then. Now I’m 28 😂 so it’s been 15 years of me simply loving Taylor. I felt like I grew up with her. I think it’s true that she’s an Artist with a capital A. She just proves that she can do any genre she wants - rep to lover to folklore/evermore, and now Midnights. Oh also, Red & 1989 are my TOP TIER Taylor Albums, but right now, Midnights topped them off. 🌌 As someone who has been listening to Taylor for 15 years, I geeked out like crazy when she had Track No 2 - Maroon. Because the song RED was also Track No 2 on the RED album 😭 just another way of how she does things so efficiently and neatly ❤ I loved this review you did, and yes - I also cried a lot listening to You’re On Your Own Kid, and I liked the perspective you gave abt not feeling perfect. I kinda felt that other than a past relationship, she could also be talking abt her dreams/career. Anyway, great review!!! Keep them coming!!! Learnt a lot. You certainly sound like a Swifty to me!!!

[@Mel-jl8dt]

Many people call midnight one of her worst album but to me the 1st time I listened I was impressed but it was definitely a grower. The more I listened the more I fell in love. Kanye doesn't shift culture anymore, he even lost his fans with his behaviour this year unfortunately. But back to Taylor. I do agree it's on the same level as folklore and evermore. Lyrics wise it's different but just as good

[@juliagabriela8916]

Very thankful for this video. Never going to listen to midnights the same way. This is the type of video I can listen!! You added much knowledge to me

[@cwoissant_22]

I freaking love your reviews 😍

[@nfbconnect]

This album is a masterpiece. I’ve only heard/read extremely positive reviews but everyone connects to music in a personal way so who knows 💃

[@ricraft8781]

actually users reviews are all about it being mid, mediocre, generic, boring, lazy, metacritic's reviews don't matter at all, if you like it then good but it's just not true that there are only positive review, on album of the year and rate your music people are not liking it

[@angelfacetlc77]

I think labyrinth makes me feel like im actually going through a maze like up and down like your lost and trying to find a way. Amazingly beautiful for sure. I love your take on the album as a non swifty. I love seeing people appreciate her art.

[@CarmillaKnits]

I would consider myself an older swiftie (been around since Speak Now/Red), and I have to admit when I listened to Midnights for the first time, I was disappointed. I loved folklore and evermore instantly and my least favourite album is reputation, and Midnights feels, on surface level, much closer to reputation than folkmore. Now, after listening for a few days, I am just in awe of Taylor's maturity, emotional intelligence, honesty and CONFIDENCE on this album. Would definitely recommend listening to the 3AM songs though! Aaron Dessner worked on some of the tracks and they are great, especially The Great War, Would've Could've Should've and The Reader :)

[@myopia2020]

@Fenne Bastiaansen Yes! My first impression was the '3am' tracks are stronger than the album proper. The Great War, Would've Could've Should've and The Reader are my three favorites. The album itself grows on you and is MUCH deeper upon repeated listens. But to say that Lana Del Rey is 'featured' on Snow On The Beach borders on false advertising and will probably just alienate Lana's fans rather than reeling them in (which is certainly part of Taylor's intention). I'm not a Swiftie per se, just older (lol)

[@mandyjay7748]

The 3am sound is an extension of the Folklore evermore albums. With the main album you need to purge that era to appreciate the artistry. It hits me different I swear

[@abzinthez5708]

I felt the same way on my first listen and really felt guilty like so unswiftie of me. I loved Folklore and Evermore too as i quickly picked my favorites on the first listen but Midnights didnt do it for me buuuuut after 2 days I am in awe! Im loving it more and more each time. I love The Great War 😍

[@kristenbarho7463]

What's really cool about this album is that every song has something different people can connect with and relate to. I think the ones you weren't as much of a fan of were ones you didn't relate to. You're on you're own kid was one of the songs that were just "eh" for me, but hearing you explain why it hit you so deeply and personally really helped me develop a greater appreciation for it. You may find the same appreciation for other songs by hearing other peoples responses/reviews

[@Swiftilia]

Thank you for your unbiased innocent straight from your mind thought... let's go LABYRINTH stans

[@BigD151065]

Love watching your reviews and commentary. I fully agree that Midnights is her best album. The artistry is overwhelming. There is no comparison to other music made these days.

[@mahanadir]

Excellent review!! If you listen to her album Reputation, you can see that she has made songs similar to Vigilante shit before so it is a little unfair if people think it's a Billie Eilish copy

[@Raisandrade]

I'm so glad you reviewed this album, I was waiting for it. Love your reviews. It's a great album and I can't understand why there are so many fans that didn't like it either. So nice that you loved Maroon, You're On Your Own Kid and Mastermind. I loved your tougths about it. By the way I think you're already a swiftie hahaha even if you dont listen to the 3AM version (but I gotta say that I think you would love some of these songs)

[@rma4266]

Intriguing viewpoint on the response of her new album by her fans, it was also reflected in the critical reviews she's gotten- ranging from 48 - 100. She has always managed to be a polarizing topic. It's interesting how she experiments with her various interests in different genres/themes that may not always reflect her demographics interests. Her ability to elicit a response from you regarding the topic of control was eye opening. Her knack to somehow relate to her fanbase (of different ages and etc) & to incorporate social media while introducing them to her various influences has been a skill she has been able to hone. She likes to respond to her image in the media or different trends through her music. For example, in Anti-hero, there was a meme regarding her image about how she should write how she was the problem (regarding her love life & public image). Also the sexy baby reference may refer to a term how certain celebrities are perceived as... ("[A sexy baby is] someone who derives their power from being both sexy and babyish, but, crucially, is not a baby," Vice said in 2018.) - so basically a person who can do no wrong? In contrast, verses those who convey the the opposite- like you mentioned her- a BossB* :) or assertive personality. In Mastermind, it's clever how she references one of the simplest games (dominoes) to a complex game (pawn -chess), very layered. In a way, she may also be applying this to her relationship with the public, especially the fans. MM is a game played by two parties- she drops easter eggs & challengers them. Lol- kinda cool your dogs cameo on Make a Dog's Day (specifically Rescue dogs)- good plug.

[@rma4266]

Lol, she must like working with Red teams- she sang on Birch & Renegade (made me think of Exile) with Big Red Machine (members - Aaron Dessner & Justin Vernon) & probably Red Hearse (Jack Antonoff, singer Sam Dew and producer Sounwave).

[@courtware2786]

this is one of your best reviews well done

[@gustavlucas4722]

I am really enjoying this video so far!! I was really surprised by your favorite song choice, my favorites would probably be "karma", "question...?" and "mastermind"

[@mollymccracken2740]

I see you, but those 3 am tracks are incredible.

[@jericsuson5250]

"The way your blue eyes shined. Put those Georgia stars to shame that night."

[@ivyr8371]

Blew my mind with the trust thing correlating to not being comforted enough as a kid

[@mirrorball96]

I absolutely adore your perspective on her music. When this album came out I was really eager for your perspective!

[@gerardovazquez6441]

I once heard the Mexican filmmaker Arturo Ripstein say: You have to be very careful that your gaze is not affected by the circumstances if not by the work I don't know why looking at this review I remembered that phrase

[@st0r4g36]

Taylor actually mentioned that she also wanted to explore the visual side of this album, so I'm not sure if it is a complete visual album or not but I think we can expect really complex music videos/movies for a few song that were directed by her. I think it's gonna be great for you to check them out

[@mandyjay7748]

I listened to the album with the lyric video and you can really appreciate the visuals. Already without visual, the songs paints a picture in your head every time. She was intentional with the main album with imagery I swear

[@masquoi]

Nice review. MIDNIGHTS the best explained so far for me.

[@jess497]

I’m a Swiftie, and I love this album! It’s excellent, and the more I listen, the more I love it. I think part of the problem with the fandom is they expect her to remain the same and, at the same time, show something new. I’m so glad she goes where she wants, showing us different sides of Her. I respect her work, her growth, and her writing. I'm happy because she goes where she wants and does it beautifully.

[@onassa1478]

That's the point, the point is that Midnights sounds similar to her previous records like Lover and Reputation and has a bit of 1989 as well, but it does not surpass the quality in these albums. Swifties WERE expecting something different with Midnights. And it was the same repetitive subjects and themes except for Anti-Hero, You're on your own kid, and Mastermind. Even good tracks like Lavender Haze, Maroon, Labyrinth, bigger than the whole sky, the great war, Would've Could've Should've have themes which she has already explored before. I love that she is always experimenting, and you can hear the experimentation with the sound effects and her crispy vocals, but none of the tracks stand out like All Too Well in Red, Gateway Car in Reputation, Out of the Woods/ Style/ Wildest Dreams in 1989, Cruel Summer and Cornelia Street in Lover, I can go on. Midnights is okay, not great, definitely not better than her previous records. Even concept wise- it really isn't absolutely about sleepless nights tracks. The way she marketed it, made it feel like we'd get more tracks like Anti Hero talking about our demons. But then we have tracks like Karma and Vigilante Shit which Reputation has already done, or Maroon, and Lavender Haze which Lover and Reputation has dealt with too, even the better 3 am tracks Bigger than the whole sky and The Great War sounds like they could be from Folkmore era, Bejeweled is a Lover track.

[@shareefaali9229]

Taylor is my absolute favorite western artist and she is the onle artist that i love almost all of their songs. It is very hard to choose one favorite song of hers because they change according to my mood

[@midnightreactions1224]

I could not agree with you more on so many thoughts and opinions. As a 60 year old who listens to so many styles of music, not a single artist moves me more than a TS song. Great review.

[@musicfangirl7403]

Loved your video professor! Like Taylor, I’m a nerdy girl with thoughts. Atmosphere and restraint! YES! The pop Swifties complaining that it’s boring don’t understand the idea of a dream pop album. It’s a mid-tempo sad girl mood. Go listen to Rep or 1989 and dance elsewhere. The woman’s got 10 albums and everyone will have a favorite and least favorite. This is her most cohesive since Folklore. The 13 tracks are perfect in soundscape and length. The bonus tracks always unearth some gems but they do not need to be here. The entire album is an earworm. Because TS is a melodic genius. How can you possibly slam Lavender Haze?! One of the best songs on the album, setting the scene that she’s in a happy relationship with someone who doesn’t care about all the crap that’s coming until the last 2 songs. Such a mid-tempo disco mood and a perfect opening track. HARD disagree. As a fellow GenX’er I drive to work crying to Taylor songs regularly. It makes me crazy when people (grown men) think it’s only 14 year old girls listening to her. She’s well into her 30’s now, writing adult albums about mature love and emotions. She will be on her 72nd album and people will still think her audience is only teenage girls. Re: songwriting credits… back in the day no one was credited but the person who wrote the lyrics and the hook. In today’s landscape everyone who contributes is offered a credit. By today’s standards nothing would be Lennon/McCartney. It would be all 4 Beatles + George Martin + Mal Evans, etc. The stigma that more songwriters = a lesser song is unfair. I’m willing to bet Tay writes 99% of those lyrics though. 8am French classes were hell on earth.

[@gerardovazquez6441]

What is verified in the shows is that 90% of the public are teenagers desperate to be Taylor Swift and the same will happen on the next tour. I don't know why you think that's a disvalue. a dollar is a dollar, no matter who pays it

[@conradcoolerfiend]

Im nowhere near taylor swifts target market, but this album was awesome. I heard a lot of influence sonically from Lorde's Melodrama. Jack was the main collaborator on that one too. Good one to draw heavy inspiration from, that is an all time album.

[@NicoleMarieDay]

Thank you for this review. I think the people who aren’t Swifties but understand her artistic genius are my favorite reviewers. Because they see all the things that make me a Swiftie.

[@heidyjane4778]

love your review for midnights! my #1 is bigger than the whole sky, cant stop crying while missing my best friend who has passed away this year 😭

[@RyanTaylor2000]

This album grew on me real quick. First listened I only got 3/4 tracks but now I got all 13 of then on rotation plus some more from the 3am tracks. She really does reinvent herself every time, I usually don’t get it the first time listening to a new TS album because it really is always different from the previous ones. But being different doesn’t mean worse. I love that Taylor is actively switching her style to not make things twice.

[@adi._.]

I’m a swiftie and I personally adore this album! Love hearing your insightful input and well thought out opinions!

[@raylynne5280]

I don't know how she wrote any of her other albums but I do know during the pandemic (when she wrote Folklore and Evermore) she was basically getting instrumental tracks from Jack Antonoff and Aaron Dessner and was writing lyrics over them, sometimes based on simply the story the music told her. And her album Speak Now was completely self written, she was getting hate from critics (one in particular) about not being able to write her own music because she had other writers on her songs. One of the songs on the album, Mean is actually supposed to be about that critic. So I mean I'd assume it would be fairly similar to what she did with the last two but who knows. Also her boyfriend, who goes by the pseudonym William Bowery, has helped write several songs which I think is the CUTEST!!!

[@ashleywright927]

As a long time swiftie I 100% agree with you. I listened to this album and thought it’s the best thing she’s ever done. And I didn’t even know that was possible since I couldn’t imagine another level above her previous work. But this is a goddamn masterpiece

[@anisd100]

I started loving Taylor Swift ever since I heard Teardrops in my Guitar in 2007. and here I am now to Midnights

[@markbarnwell942]

This is my second viewing and I thought I was going to say a lot. I just want to say one thing now, Professor, you must be an excellent teacher and lecturer. I do believe your student are lucky to get into your classes. I really like this album to.

[@professorskye]

Thank you for the kind words. In truth, I’ve had to cancel MANY classes due to under enrollment in my career as a professor. Part of why I do the channel is that it helps me find the people who want to hear what I have to say.

[@markbarnwell942]

@@professorskye i am 62 yo guy who found this amazing artist through youtube and the time covid brought to us all. Of course, I knew of the pop sensation TS. FYI she has been with the English guy Joe for over six years now. THIS IS ME TRYING is my fave song for now.

[@jellyrcw12]

I adore this album. Especially Karma, Anti-Hero, and Midnight Rain. It sounds so dreamy.

[@keniacomk13]

I love Midnights, its one of her best albums for sure.

[@Chemir486]

I LOVE THIS VIDEO SO MUCH. THANK YOU

[@A_L-qy2qg]

Wow I seriously appreciate this review, so interesting from a non-Swiftie perspective. Thank you.

[@mehrzadabbasi3433]

I really enjoy your review because you really understand how taylor swift is amazing and genius ❤

[@PratyushaMishra]

Evermore was my favourite but Midnights is now my new favourite!!! 💖

[@cyds.726]

I totally agree with your comment about Swift as a great collaborator. Of course, she writes a lot if not most of her lyrics/melodies etc., but none of her work would be at the level it is without the input or work of her trusted collaborators. And I think she has definitely pointed that out, at least in regards to giving Jack Antonoff, Aaron Dessner, and other co-writers and producers their flowers.

[@termin09]

My interpretation of You're on Your Own Kid is about her chasing her dreams of wanting to be an artists (in the context of the song the dream is personified). Swifties let's talk cause I'm losing my mind over my interpretation.

[@destinykendall7999]

Yes i think of it as song about her career/life overall

[@5880041]

I did too on first listen, but I appreciated the added layer of it being about the appearance of “success” more generally - at work and in relationships - that professor skye’s take added for me