Taylor Swift's My Tears Ricochet Reaction | Did I just become a SWIFTIE???

[@sommergibson5321]

"I'm not a singer. I'm a songwriter who gets to sing her owns songs." Welcome to the club, we're glad to have you 🫶

[@Lexislee2020]

How do you think he’d react to seven?

[@nicolemckee2761]

Yeah!! She said she wouldnt sing if she didnt write the stuff

[@beckyacoates]

She has said it so many times, but I also adore that she's aware of this and instead of just coasting on her songwriting skill, she has still worked so extremely hard to improve her vocals.

[@onemn150]

@@Lexislee2020and hoax 😭

[@BingBongHummah]

This. Similar to artists like Bob Dylan. Some artists are just artists. Not vocalists.

[@andreadugan6725]

If lyrics and songwriting is your favorite part of music, then you’re in good hands with Taylor. Welcome home, Swiftie 🫶🏻

[@joelmihal_2319]

as soon as I heard him say that I knew he was gonna love her

[@TheBlackSpeed]

Haha you both are correct. Happy to be here. :)

[@Lexislee2020]

Seriously. He said that and I thought “oh man, you’re going to love Taylor”

[@brickmonster]

Taylor herself has said that she is a songwriter who decided to sing her own songs. The strength in her vocals is her inflections that give emotion to the song and just the fact that her voice is nice to listen to. She will never win a belt-off competition and her fans don’t expect her to. Bob Dylan is a legend and Ive never seen anyone comparing him to Freddie Mercury.

[@erinthomas9828]

​@@brickmonstereloquently said.

[@annea9874]

She herself acknowledges her primary talent is songwriting. She has said if she couldn’t write she wouldn’t sing.

[@meredith1017]

Came here to say the same thing. She has said this about herself too. But also, even though we don’t get vocal gymnastics, her range is OUT OF CONTROL. And the strength. 3.5 hours night after night after night. Not all talents look the same from artist to artist.

[@DanielleFromMI]

Yep! Very self aware person. Her mastery is knowing exactly how to use her best strengths to have the most effective emotional connection to the lyrics and music.

[@martinavega9536]

Exactly, not one real fan has ever claimed she is a vocalist because she isn't. We don't deny her range because we know she has it (I mean I feel like people heavily sleep on people who can sing low af like her and prefer the huge high notes) but we always refer to her as a songwriters because that is her biggest skill. And more people would marvel at her talent if they inly gave a chance at the rest of her discography and then they will realize even her more commercial songs have a deep meaning.

[@llhannah9297]

Is it though? "If Im dead to you why are you at the wake" She didn't write that. She got it from an episode of Friends. Their writers wrote that. I wonder if she gave them credit.

[@alexiafrench254]

Also anyone else wanna just send him right into “don’t blame me” live vocals from reputation stadium tour😂

[@jeniburnsidelife]

My hair blew back!!

[@linneathunberg6459]

YES!

[@AnnaMiller-p2q]

He seems like he is Ready for it!! 😉😉🫶🫶💙💙🥰🥰

[@alexiafrench254]

@ honestly same but some people I have seen disagree. But both are *chefs kiss* 💋

[@Williamzlmhx-do8rz]

no, should do the OG version first and the eras tour with look what you made me do

[@mallorymyers7525]

I suspect a lot of her fans are readers. Really diving into her catalog reminds me of fantasy series. In some ways, being a TS fan is like being a Lord of the Rings fan. You can have a good experience just watching the movies once, but there's tons more when you read the all books. And then there are the outliers who learn Elvish. I really enjoy how you can piece together different views of the same characters and situations as they pop up in different songs and albums. I find the collection and juxtaposition of different thoughts on the same topics and relationships an interesting way to reflect on these themes. And she has built up a lot of running metaphors and imagery (colors being the most obvious with the songs Red, Maroon, Daylight/golden).

[@TheBlackSpeed]

I too enjoy doing that, and I appreciate you noticing and saying so. The fact that one piece of literature or medium or thing can garner a bunch of differing (yet equally positive) messages is not only cool but educational. I'm glad you've been enjoying them!

[@evafischer6849]

as a Swiftie and LotR FREAK I feel seen🤣

[@BlackStar-fy8of]

I have told people this exactly! Being a TS fan can be casual or you can dig deep into the Lore, the history, the hidden Easter eggs and messages.

[@katjavanrennes9941]

Yeesss I agree with this wholeheartedly

[@AnjeannetteMarie-Swifie4Ever]

Taylor is a lyricist and storyteller. There are a million people who can sing better than her but it’s her emotive use of her vocals that connect with people. She’s up there with the greatest singer-songwriters of our generation. You don’t need to know the backstory but I do find it beautiful that one of her first big songs was “Teardrops On My Guitar” with her original label and when she wrote this song about the betrayal she uses another teardrop metaphor “Look At How My Tears Ricochet”. It’s poetry

[@carked5707]

She has had to continue to work on her vocals and dance- but honestly her lyricism has always been good and now it is top tier

[@marycullars4621]

Omg I never put that together tbh 😂

[@verbur48]

What a great interpretation!❤

[@Debbie-m7f]

Her voice has gotten better as she is getting older… so good❤

[@EJSElling]

I wouldn't say "there are a million singers who are better", (there's not), but I would say that HER singing voice has gotten a million times better since she started at 14.

[@rachelgriffin6427]

I’ve heard a lot of musicians react to her and say that while she is not a powerhouse vocalist with runs and whistle notes, she absolutely knows how to use her voice as a tool for storytelling. Because she is so close to the emotion of the songwriting and experience that inspired it, she knows how to whisper or be sassy or be angry. Her voice is emotional, and that’s why it works. The song definitely works as a metaphor for me thinking of the experience of a messy divorce. Lol. If her professional divorce inspired it, that’s even more impressive in my opinion that she takes her story and makes it so accessible to others.

[@Sassyglbeauty]

Definitely.

[@sarahgray6157]

I'm an English teacher. A text, whether it's a song, novel, or poem, ideally needs to work on its own for any willing and capable audience without having to dig into author biography. Nearly all of Taylor's songs pass this test. They work on the storytelling level or metaphorical level, allowing anyone to get a layer of meaning or to apply their own personal connection. AND many of Taylor's songs have additional layers of meaning that emerge when the listener knows some of her story.

[@Sassyglbeauty]

Yes. Definitely. Although, as a fan some things will def strike a listener. She primarily uses other methods for weaving Easter eggs for her fans. I think her creative way of connecting with her fans kinda makes her music interactive and fans feel more invested.

[@AndreaMalloyd]

Agreed. I’ve written stories about my own life to some of her songs.

[@christinagriffith8839]

@theblackspeed I am a lyrics person too. Studied English and words of my jam. She is a better lyricist than a singer, hence singer/songwriter and why she’s only continued to grow her fanbase. Substance. She’s an amazing performer. She’s a theater kid - she performs her song. She shows are theatrical.

[@mrs.robinsonisreading4105]

Fellow English teacher here. -a resounding YES to all of what @sarahgray6157 commented. I will add that I have noticed that the layers she weaves into her discography-the continuity she creates is intentional, well thought-out, and well executed. I think that, in and of itself, is what draws many Swifties. I agree with you that she isn’t the *best* singer out there, but I love her must so and songwriting talent. What I REALLY love, though, as an English teacher and lover of words, is that her songs are BUILT to have layers and be interpreted. It’s like a playground for any wordsmith’s or puzzler’s mind.

[@missourimomofthree]

Been reading Emily Dickinson and Taylor…. so much to see between their lines. then -i find out she wishes she lived in 1830 and that she is related to Emily Dickinson. and that is weirdly beautiful.

[@haddadimen8957]

Taylor herself said she is a songwriter that happens to sing her song and she said she sees herself in the future writing for other people and sitting back ( she already did try that for artists like rihanna and calvin harris and little big town) so as long as she is writing she is ok. but as for the singing she never does anything crazy for the studio versions but she usually adds stronger vocals for the live versions like with songs like out of the woods and dont blame me and holy ground.

[@arsenialedbetter0869]

We appreciate the fact that you're even giving her a chance. A lot of people say they hate her...but I ask, why? She has a wonderful voice and she is one of the most prolific songwriter that I have encountered. Once you really listen to what she has to say, you can feel how deep it goes...down to your soul.

[@TheBlackSpeed]

Of course! It was finally time to give her a chance and escape the echo chamber I was in. Never disliked her to be fair, just perhaps didn't understand or relate. Her songs never seemed for me, people like me, and people with my background. I'm starting to find some that are and I'm happy to support!

[@blairmare]

Have you listened to "Look What You Made Me Do" from her Reputation album?

[@blairmare]

There is no one who disagrees with you about her voice. Taylor often says "if I couldn't write I wouldn't sing". She doesn't think of herself as a singer she thinks of her as herself as a writer who sings her own songs.

[@TheBlackSpeed]

@@blairmare I haven't. What's on the playlist is all I've done. :) More to come though!

[@blairmare]

@@TheBlackSpeed I look forward to it, I appreciate that you're well spoken and that you haven't made up your mind before you listen to the music. I have been around people who make a certain noise when I say the words Taylor Swift, then they tell me how much they hate her even though they've never listen to any of her music. Not one of them can tell me why they hate her, only that they do. I am a 62-year-old Swifty. I find her brilliant.

[@hazmania]

You're correct! It's a fire song, BUT the story behind it lends even more meaning to the lyrics. Scott, at Big machine was her manager since she was 15/16 years old, like a 2nd father to her, she trusted him & loved him like a father, and he sold her masters to a man (Scooter Braun) that he knew Taylor hated. Her masters are the jewels, her songs are the lullaby's she's asking if he hears when he can't sleep, ‘cos Scott absolutely knew how much he hurt her. He knew she wanted to buy them, but he sold them anyway, doubly hurtful ‘‘cos it was to someone he knew she despised! But she's re-recording her albums so the new masters will be hers!! Hence you have "Taylor's Version" (TV) on her rereleases. That's her F-you to Scott & Scooter. Companies like iHeart Radio have supported her by saying they'll only ever play TV of her songs. She's said she's not the most amazing singer (though I think she's got a truly lovely voice) she's a lyricist first & foremost! So glad you appreciate her writing, I was pretty sure you would.🥰love from Annie, in Cornwall, UK🙂🌸

[@vidsorama2]

Scott was never Taylor's manager. Scott was head of her former record label, Big Machine Records.

[@cynrok]

it's about calvin. 'drunk on this pain, crossing out the good years.' exactly what calvin did. scott never 'cursed her name' or tried to bury her, never went for blood, all he did was defend himself. he was wrong and he hurt her of course, but he didn't personally attack her, ever, like calvin did. 'turned into your worst fears'...calvin essentially said this about himself after his post-breakup meltdown, said 'it was the wrong impulse, i' a positive guy.'

[@akern333]

Scooter. That man did so many people wrong. Sooooooo many.

[@nikkikaylor6161]

Swifties have never thought that she was an amazing singer. She is first and foremost a songwriter. All of her vocal ability she’s worked her ass off to get to. She’s put in the work to get better because she knows it’s not her strong suit. Fans have never disagreed with that. It’s her art that we appreciate.

[@TaylorBright13]

So, i don't consider myself a swiftie (more of a casual fan), but I've said for the last few years now, and truly believe, she is this generations Dolly Parton when it comes to songwriting.

[@Azarath_Metrion_Zinthos]

Ur first name is Taylor and has 13 at the end of ur handle name... are u sure u r not a Swiftie? 😂

[@TaylorBright13]

@Azarath_Metrion_Zinthos lol I swear! But maybe it's a sign i should become one.....

[@TheBlackSpeed]

They about to convert you too haha

[@erinsnow1167]

@@Azarath_Metrion_Zinthos She is up there with Dolly but she is a queen

[@MelodyS-z4k]

I live right outside The Smoky Mountains. I see Dolly’s sister all the time and Dolly is our hometown legend but Taylor is a better writer. I wouldn’t hurt Dolly’s feelings for anything but I think Dolly would agree.

[@carolynnewcomb2153]

I highly recommend checking out her Long Pond studio sessions which include all of her songs from Folklore! She even discusses each song with her producer first, getting into the meaning of the lyrics etc. Then it goes to them in the studio with her singing a slightly stripped down version. It’s amazing! This song is one of my favorites from the Long Pond studio sessions!

[@tothelakes]

Yesssss plsss❤

[@tonyblower2863]

yes i second this it’s the best way to enjoy the album

[@KB-qy8ps]

This and This is Me Trying are exquisite in the long pond sessions!

[@DreaAnnTW]

Another vote for the Long Pond Sessions!!! I think he’s gonna be a folklore Stan.

[@cherriesrule13]

@@KB-qy8ps long pond This is Me Trying is sssooo good it hurts

[@myphoneisblue]

I LOVE when lyricists get ahold of Taylor’s music. Her power is in her words. Can’t wait to see more reacts!

[@TheBlackSpeed]

I'm late to the game but definitely am going to have fun dissecting as I have the capacity to do so haha. Going to be fun. :)

[@OrlandoMarrero]

A comment from a Swiftie said that the Chorus has easter eggs of her 6 stolen albums: She's a Mastermind !!!! 1. …..I didn't have it in myself to go with grace ( Song - State of Grace ) Album: RED 2. …..And you're the hero flying around, saving face ( Song - Superman ) Album: Speak Now 3. …..And if I'm dead to you, why are you at the wake? ( Song - Look What You Made Me Do ) Album: REPUTATION 4. …..Cursing my name, ( Song - The Way I Loved You ) Album: FEARLESS 5. …..wishing I stayed ( Song - All You Had To Do Was Stay ) Album: 1989 6. …..Look at how my tears ricochet ( Song - Teardrops On My Guitar ) Album: Debut - Taylor Swift

[@taralovesdiamondart]

And this is why I love this fandom.

[@heatherwilson9717]

Having gone through a painful break up (divorce) I don't need HER backstory to feel this song. So many of the feelings from this song match mine.

[@hK_Ultra_]

That’s what she said it reminded her of and what goes through my head when I hear it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bKmsnmijdrGoqposi=dfmo3Ac46TqjLObR

[@kdew8053]

Yes,I totally agree that she writes from her specific emotions in a broad way that lets me apply those feelings to my own situation. Amazing.

[@angiieeets]

She wrote it about a man who was like a father to her and owner of her music. He sold her music to a man she hated, he didnt give her a chance to buy it and he took her life work away from her. He was like a father to her and thats why it hurt so much to her. And she also said the song reminded her of people going through a divorce

[@jenniferri7735]

her lyricism is unmatched, period. she is a freaking genius. and i’m not even a swiftie.

[@charbenz2768]

The jewelry/ stones = albums. The stolen lullabies = her masters... I like everything you're saying so I'm subscribing. 😊

[@karakonrad1732]

Same same same. It makes me angry with him all over again.

[@hK_Ultra_]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/bKmsnmijdrGoqposi=dfmo3Ac46TqjLObR Definitely about Scott. But I think she intentionally says it this way so listeners that don’t know the lore of it all simply relate to how it makes them feel. I knew was it was about but the divorce comment she made always stuck with me more than thinking about Scott specifically. The person you were the closest to knows how to hurt you the deepest and in the end they both destroy each other. But we’ll always know who hears her lullabies.

[@Willpayforsleep]

“She’s a better writer than a singer” absolutely. She’s a great singer but she is a FIRE writer. She is the definition of “The pen is mightier than the sword” 100% agree.

[@jessicamartin8552]

Taylor has said, herself, that if she wasn’t a great songwriter, she wouldn’t be here in the industry. Ironically, If you want to hear great vocals, she is better live actually. 1989 tour really highlights that. Also, rep tour, but “Carolina” is a great track that shows off her range.

[@keepyourmindopen]

Taylor herself cays she a songwriter who sings her own songs. She is an incredible lyricist and melody writer. When singing she prioritizes emoting her lyrics over vocal gymnastics.

[@Lets-lu2bc]

Kinda obsessed with u and ur vids on taylor. As a swiftie I agree with u, her singing is great but that’s not what she is. She’s not a vocalist in any way, but her songwriting I find so fascinating. When ppl ask me why I’m a swiftie given how diff she is from every other artist I listen to, it’s genuinely bc of the pen game. HER PEN GAME is enough for me to love her as a musician

[@TheBlackSpeed]

Haha well I appreciate being put in the same sentence as her. We have more to come so hope to keep seeing you around. :0 Her pen game is definitely top-tier, no doubt about4 it.

[@CoastDreamz]

I like this song with, or without, the backstory. Many Taylor fans love to know what her songs are about, but Taylor doesn't expect them to. She has said that she loves it when the listener puts their own interpretation to the song, and what it means to them personally. Taylor has also said that she wouldn't be where she was today if she didn't write her own songs. She loves to tell stories with her music. She admits that she's not a top tier singer, but I love her voice and how she uses it. She's worked hard over the years one her singing voice. You can hear the changes over the years. Her voice has also changed as she's gotten older. Which is normal.

[@lumaerocha]

While I agree that there are other singers who sing “better,” Taylor’s voice is just amazing. For example, I prefer her voice ten times over Ariana Grande’s. No shade to her, she’s a great artist and singer, but her voice doesn’t particularly suit my taste. Anyway, all this to say, you should hear Taylor live, she’s incredible. Great reaction! Here are some live performances for you to check out: • I Don’t Wanna Live Forever (Live Remastered 4K) • Cornelia Street (Live from Paris) • How Did It End (Live from The Eras Tour) • Wildest Dreams/Enchanted (Live from the 1989 Tour) • Out of the Woods (Live from the 1989 Tour) • Don’t Blame Me (Live from the Reputation Tour)

[@greywaren621]

This comment is perfect. PURRFECT

[@argentinaangel]

Your list is perfection!

[@anpanek]

That’s the coolest thing about TS, is her songs have so many different ways to interpret it, lore or not. That’s what makes in more relatable to the masses, is people can assign any meaning to it.

[@kdew8053]

Totally agree

[@andrenieuwlaat9097]

You should watch the Long Pond live version - you can see the frustration and anger on her face as she sings this song. And her singing on the Long Pond sessions is the best ever, out of this world ! Btw, I'm subscribing. Being a very recent swiftie myself, aged 64, I love watching people like you discovering the genius of Taylor ! A word of warning though: you will probably fall head over heels in love with her, we all do. Don't resist it, it's no use.

[@shawnaparker5509]

it is beautiful!

[@SamanthaFrench-u2j]

Yay! You found the swifties that care about the music part! I wasn’t a swiftie till I started listening to her non-radio stuff and it blew my mind. And it’s not all genius, but enough of it is that she’s worth studying in a real light, not through the fandom lens.

[@TheBlackSpeed]

I found yall and I'm here to stay. :)

[@ameliadavis1979]

This song is to Scott Borchetta. She signed with him when she was 15. She was his first artist. The "jewels" are all of her awards. Her contract was for 13 years. She made it very clear multiple times she wanted to buy her masters. She owned the publishing. He didn't give her the option to buy her masters. When he sold his entire record company, Taylor was 85% of the companies income. Taylor's stationary has her name at the top and songwriter/cat enthusiasts at the bottom. She writes or co- writes all of her songs, produces and directs some of her music videos. She plays a 6 and 12 string acoustic guitar, an electric guitar, the paino, banjo and ukulele. You should watch the lyric video for LOML. It has great lyrics.

[@auroras333-jz3ju]

Taylor’s writing is inspired by her own life (like any writer, and sometimes to a large extent), but she also talked about this song in the context of a divorce or how a comic hero’s nemesis was once their best friend. So, she finds inspiration from multiple places, and I think she appreciates that listeners apply their own situations to their interpretations of her songs.

[@tcconnection]

I love Taylor's voice, so uniquely hers. So glad she performs her words.

[@Kelly-i4j]

You like lyrics you say! Taylor is the queen

[@Lmaddie63859]

If you’re into songwriting you will become or already are a swiftie..this is her genius and what’s completely missed about it her until people actually listen to her full discography and actually pay attention to her words there’s no one else like her

[@janineivey03121]

She is an incredible performer, and knows how to best showcase the emotion she is conveying.

[@RachelLuckey-f2e]

I wholeheartedly agree with your take on Taylor's singing vs. songwriting talents. It's funny, though...over the years as a fan, I've started really loving her talk-singing voice. There's something about her voice that's just so comforting and I really like the way she emphasizes phrases and specific lyrics rather than performing complicated vocal runs that she knows are not her forte. It's such a unique quality in her way of singing vs. other artists. I dooo think she has developed her voice and spent more time adjusting the way she sings over the last four years and it's more beautiful to me than the pitchy tone she used to have.

[@Brandi2281]

If lyricism and storytelling are your thing- welcome home! 🫶🫶 Taylor is definitely more of a lyricist than a vocalist- however over the span of her career she has improved vocally so much, and learned how to really use her voice as an instrument that adds to the story. Welcome to the Swiftiehood! Happy to have you😊

[@SarahSirbaskuWilliamsPhD]

Another amazing duet is The Last Time on Red (Taylor's Version). She is singing with the lead singer from Snow Patrol, who is also an amazing lyricist. Sooooo worth a good listen. I am enjoying your new experiences of Taylor. Thank you for keeping an open mind and honestly sharing. Yeah, you are a Swiftie now. :)

[@TheBlackSpeed]

Haha it would seem I am. Probably going to be a bit of a different kind of Swiftie compared to most, but one all the same!

[@SarahSirbaskuWilliamsPhD]

@TheBlackSpeed There are lots of different kinds of Swifties. You will fit right in. :)

[@cameronphillips5692]

Taylor has never claimed to be a vocalist. She is a singer - songwriter. However, her voice has a lot of character to it so she can emote well.

[@tothelakes]

She's improved a lott too

[@queenofjensylvania]

She's a pretty good vocalist. She does not show it that often, but if you listen to Cornelia Street live in Paris you'll hear. It's not easy to switch from head to chest voice that effortlessly.

[@hagen1305]

She’s talking about Scott. He hears her stolen lullabies, his jewles are her platinum records. But no, need to know the back story.

[@melannie19]

Definitely check out Champagne Problems, All Too Well 10min version, Loml, Youre losing me, The Smallest man who ever lived, How did it end, Tolorate it. GREAT lyrics 🤯

[@erickab8533]

7:25 she is 100% a songwriter, who sings her songs. I think she has said before that she does not write songs that are hard to sing.

[@megandelynn6114]

I love that you really delve into her lyrics because so many people that try to go down a Taylor Swift Rabbit Hole are just doing it for the views and so a lot of times they'll just start out by saying it just seems like every song is about a breakup because that's what they assume it's about based on their preconceived notions of her music🙄 Great reactors are like crack for Swifties because we love feeling like we almost get to hear the song for the first time again watching somebody else hear it for the first time! On top of that, you give us things that we maybe haven't thought about in the song before which we really really appreciate so thank you!🫶

[@TheBlackSpeed]

I appreciate this comment and glad you took the time to pick up on what I was trying to put down. :) It was fun to do so!

[@tambij]

I completely agree with you! I never listened to Taylor for the first time about 4 months ago, I was pleasantly surprised. I was hearing soo much negative but at the same time Even more positive. So I started listening, & listening more & more. Her music is beautiful. I really love the reputation album. I think she has a lot of haters because she is the whole package. Writer, lyricist, beauty, extremely intelligent, . She’s Amazing all the musical instruments she plays . She can do it all and her birthday is December 13, 1989. She will be 35 years old in a few weeks. 🎈 🦋 💕

[@jarnlicheney2386]

I think the best way to describe her voice is, it's a really pretty voice. Also, most Swifties want life to be a singalong and she writes most of her songs right down the middle. Not too falsetto all the time means most of us can sing along. But she is so blessed with a gift for poetry and storytelling.

[@pattiblack474]

She paints a picture with her lyrics and you almost feel like you're reading a great book. I love Maroon, Clean, Loml, All too well, ( 10 min version) , You're in love , gosh so many and most are not main stream . I really like your take on her songs and your reactions. Enjoy your journey !!

[@Lunggirl]

Her singing and her delivery is hers and nobody can replace that..that's the magic of it! Her songs are her children.

[@kimberlyharwell7189]

The beauty of Taylor Swift is exactly what you said. The meanings are universal but most of her songs are about specific people / situations. I love that part too. A little "If you know you know" on the back story. lol. I think that's what I like the best about her. You can adapt it to your own life. To me this song is to my brother who left the family and so it has felt like a death although he's still alive.

[@darlinesly9364]

You can say bar. She’s a fan of rap and she drops bars on some of her songs for sure.

[@christineviolet4831]

I’ve recently realized that one of the things I love about Taylor is that she has a very clear voice and she doesn’t do runs. I can totally appreciate singers like Kelly, Christina, Mariah, etc… but sometimes my brain just cannot handle all the runs… but 100% I think her songwriting and lyricism far outweigh her singing. As a major swifie, personally I love knowing the backstory to her songs, because then I feel connected to songs that might not apply to my own life. But I also know that a lot of people interpret her songs in different ways, and find ways that they fit into their lives… that’s the beauty of her songs. Also the more TayLORE you learn about, the more layered her lyrics get, and you realize that sometimes a line can have two, three, four meanings. It can be hard for non-fans to truly appreciate her genius, because there is so much backstory to know. Her more recent work will have references to previous albums/songs/eras that would go over someone’s head if they didn’t know the lore. I think that is why she can often be underestimated in terms of songwriting. Anyway, glad you are enjoying her music and that you want to keep going! ❤

[@teresacox7316]

Welcome to the party! I personally love the songs knowing the backstory for each of them. It just adds SO much more context to the lyrics. Taylor is such a brilliant writer and her way with words is absolutely what took me from an average fan (during her country years) to a big Swiftie willing to spend my hard earned money to fly to Europe to go see her in concert this year. The Folklore ablum and the 10 minute version of All Too Well are what sold me completely on her as an artist.

[@kelloneill74]

I'm a HUGE Swiftie and will always defend her talent but I agree - she has had to work hard on her singing ability. She's a poet first and foremost who has learnt to use her voice to tell her stories. She has an ear for melodies and can play instruments but it's her lyrics that get me the most too. Much like any member of the Beatles or Bob Dylan. They weren't operatic singers with astounding vibrato techniques either but they knew how to convey a tale in an entertaining way. Sometimes she showcases an impressive vocal performance though - Don't Blame Me from the Reputation tour is great and Cornelia Street Live From Paris is a strong singing example too. They're not filled with long drawn out vibrato runs or vocal flips but they're strong, emotive and on pitch.

[@angelinasway]

Oh your opinion is absolutely correct. She is the best song writer of our time. Shes an okay singer, but her lyrics are so impactful.

[@bobbyrw1398]

I'm one of those seemingly a$$holes who, up until late 2021, couldn't name one Taylor Swift song title. It seems ridiculous to say that now, and I hear it all the time from reactors on KZbin who are trying TS for the first time. I can't believe they're saying that, but I was one of them not that long ago. So, what changed, you ask? It turns out it was a little ditty of hers that I stumbled onto as a recommendation while playing my usual streaming playlist. A 5-minute song? It'd better be pretty damn good to hold my attention for that long. Well, it was. I became entranced by the lyrics-the storytelling-the vivid imagery. It made me want to explore more from her, and soon enough, I was trapped. Ensnarled. Amazed at the consistent high quality of her writings. The more I listened, the more I wanted to listen more. Do you feel me spiraling? I've been a fan, turned devoted fan, turned proud Swiftie, turned "ride or die" Swiftie, and so far down the TS rabbit hole that I'll never find my way back out-but don't want to either. So, I welcome you on your own journey. You may even learn to love it here as much as me.🤔😉

[@UjjainiChatterjee]

So the first time I've heard this song, I was going through a bad break up. The relationship was abusive and when I was finally willing to let him go after trying for years, he wasn't happy with the decision and did everything he could to scare me even more. This song came in my suggestions at that point. And, without knowing the back story of it, I related to EVERY words. When I say, every words, I mean it. Many people truly love you but they just don't know how to and even after knowing, some are not able to do so for their upbringing (You turned into your worst fears). And they can't even see they are killing us slowly until we have nothing left(the wake, death references) and they'll never see how much we've done to make their life better in the process(you wear the same jweles that I gave you as you bury me). This song is very close to me and one of the biggest reason of me being a Swiftie. Thank you for giving it a try.❤

[@Miles-e4v]

Looking forward to seeing more! Loving how honest you are with your reactions

[@ayaniaz]

i also recommend Tolerate it, Champagne problems, Exile, and The smallest man who ever lived

[@kaitlynwyatt9498]

I think one of the main reasons swifties are so big on sharing the lore is that it can help a lot of songs make so much more sense. I think this song was just as impactful to me before i knew it was scott, because it could be about anyone that treated you bad. but certain lines clicked once i knew, like hear my stolen lullabies

[@issofsar]

She explains herself that her storytelling is her niche. She is a true singer/songwriter. I'm so glad you appreciate that.

[@paulafelipe1694]

The song that makes me cry everytime I hear it is Taylor Swift's loml.

[@Muffy-hu1rg]

I consider myself a newbie swiftee and I definitely agree with you. I like the song and you can relate to it on your own level with things that have happened to you, but then when you find out the back story it just elevates the song. That’s what I have learned with Taylor’s music. You can relate to it with your own life and then you find out the back story and realize she’s just like all of us with joy, sadness, betrayal, etc…

[@lynnramadan9855]

She always said she’s a songwriter who got lucky enough to sing her songs. In Live performances she changes up and hit some hot notes . They sound even better

[@BlairandGeorgie]

She’s an amazing lyricist. That is what I love most about her music. And her music is so relatable.

[@rg22usa]

To answer your question, when I first heard this song, I actually didn’t know the backstory at all. To me, it was more about a relationship I had gone through and how that sort of ended. And then finding out the whole Scott situation kind of more cleared it up in terms of what she was feeling when she wrote it. But it didn’t really change how I feel when I hear it because for me, it’s about something else. The line “ I didn’t have it in myself to go with Grace” ooooofffff

[@Hauntedswiftie117]

Some song recommendations I have for you in case you interested!! If you want some really goosebumps songs with great lyrics and amazing beat -Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me 🤍 -The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived 🤍 - Would’ve Could’ve Should’ve 💙 Some of my favorite song lyrics - All Too Well (10 minute version) (trust me you won’t regret it)❤ - How Did it End? 🤍( might not be too upbeat or catchy but the lyrics are pure POETRY) - Peter 🤍( this bridge is already amazing but when you actually the meaning behind it, it hits hard)

[@fellipe.s2]

She has also said that what put her in the position and fame she has today was her writing, she made it clear that if she didn't write all the songs she wouldn't be where she is

[@ComeWeFly]

Her lyrics are, like you said, poetry in motion. I am in awe of her turns of phrases, and her use of metaphors and imagery. Her lyrics are seamless. I listen to a lot of her songs just to wonder at the pure artistry of her storytelling. I do agree, though, that knowing the backstories of her songs make me appreciate them even more. She can hit back at haters in such a beautiful way…total badassery.

[@TG-mu5ix]

Taylor is a songwriting genius. She’s a master at metaphors. There is no doubt that her #1 talent is as a songwriter. She has described herself as a songwriter who gets to sing her songs. But, she is a very talented vocalist as well, as well as an amazing performer. She is multitalented. Taylor’s best songs, in my opinion, are her non-hit singles, I.e. her deep cuts. Her discography is extensive and amazing. This song is off of her album Folklore. The Long Pond Sessions version of this album, available on Disney+ - as well as KZbin, etc. - is super good. Stripped down live studio version. This album was recorded during Covid and Taylor and her musicians were not in the same room. Long Pond studio Sessions is when they got to play it together live for the first time.

[@taekookvkook3012]

you should really react on 'All too well 10 minute version lyric video'. It's about her relationship with Jake Gylenhall.

[@ambersharpe]

She has always said she is a songwriter who sings her own songs, not a singer who writes. She writes songs that are personal and writes them in a way that you can apply it to your own life. She said this could also apply to a divorce and how the person you were closest with can destroy you from the inside.

[@meganjroy]

I cannot wait to see your Taylor Swift journey. I love your honesty and willingness to just speak your feelings if you not liking something. With that’s said…you loving lyrics…story telling and metaphors…flipping heck!!! As long as the right songs are recommended you will prob fall in love with her ability. Is she an adel level singer..no but Jesus Christ can she paint a picture with words!

[@libbydingmann4371]

if you love songwriting and storytelling, taylor is the best at that. you’d love the songs “so long, london” and “loml” off her newest album the tortured poets department! the whole album is her best songwriting! so long, london is about her breakup with actor joe alwyn. they were together for 6 years and imagined he was her happy ending. loml is up for interpretation for fans. some speculate it’s about joe while some think it’s about matty healy (they were on and off for years).

[@kellyrobertson999]

Taylor writes in a way where we can draw our own conclusions. She often doesn't tell much about her songs because she wants us to be able to take it wherever we need to go with it. This song is about a divorce... and although she's never been divorced from a marriage perspective, she was divorced from her label. Divorce is like a death. I've often heard people who have had one spouse die and one spouse leave, and every time, they say losing a spouse to divorce is worse than to death. Having gone through a divorce after having six children, and dedicating my life to our marriage, this song hits deeply for me. That's her gift. She can touch so many people who have come from so many different heartaches, because of the way she writes.

[@tiffanyrose0488]

I think you should listen to this on the long pond studio where she sings it live.

[@KarenMonneau]

Taylor is a songwriter and a storyteller that’s why we listen to her first, younger I loved strong big voices but this is not the reason why I listen Taylor. Her voice is powerful in many other ways, and her voice also changed with the years which is normal, as we grow older our voice change.

[@KellyChiefsFan]

I really enjoyed your takes on this song! I would highly encourage you to also view the version of this song from the Long Pond Studio Sessions. It hits differently, and in my humble opinion, showcases the absolute purity and beauty of her voice as well as the emotion of the storytelling.

[@Heather-yd1bj]

I agree 💯! Taylor's live performance of this song is what made me a fan. My tears ricocheted, truly. Hearing Taylor sing live is a light bulb moment in the discovery of her talent❤

[@sistermadrigalmorning233]

Taylor is first and foremost the best lyricist of our generation. She's a good singer, musician, dancer, performer. But she's the best at lyrics, at storytelling. Like you, I'm a lyrics person and that's why I'm a Swiftie. If you aren't already, you will be. 🫶

[@lovesmelovesmeless]

I think many swifties would agree. I find her voice soothing but it obviously isn’t comparable to a Whitney or Mariah and that’s fine. her story telling is what really gets you. That’s where her power is

[@kerrichristian7991]

Taylor is definitely a writer and storyteller first so I think you get her

[@melissad807]

Taylor is an OK singer. Every now and then she hits a note that truly surprises me. I kind of like that I can sing her songs, though 😂 you don't want to hear me attempting some of Beyonces songs 😂😂😂

[@bremex]

I mean, not everyone can have it all like Jeff Buckley, Alicia Keys, Gaga or Adele (insane vocals, brilliant songwriting, multi instrumentalist). She might not be the most powerful vocalist, but nobody can’t deny she is an incredibly intelligent business woman who seems to be a really nice person. Getting into the lore she has created is pretty fascinating and insane lol

[@melissad807]

@bremex yes she is truly a mastermind with the lore and easter eggs. I actually got sucked in because I was amazed watching videos of swifties dissecting things and I thought "there's no way she's this deep.... they're all crazy" but then when I saw that some of them were actually correctly deciphering clues I was mind blown 🤣

[@lifeisgoodll]

Honestly her lyrics are pure poetry; this is why I became such a fan. However, her singing has been underrated imo. Her voice speaks to me more than someone who seems to be showing off their technique, runs, etc. It’s all about the emotion and I can literally feel the lyrics. The little breaks in her voice are used sparingly and her ability to switch in and out of falsetto is fire. 🔥 She’s an amazing storyteller and she uses both her lyrical genius and her voice to do it.

[@bg6326]

u shld watch her live... shes the best live

[@michellepadgett1025]

Taylor says she's a song writer who happens to sing her own songs. She's a poet and songwriter first. Personality, I prefer her voice and style because you're forced to pay attention to the lyrics, not the runs or voice tricks.

[@pohjiebarbosa]

Taylor is a rapper at heart, imo, poet bard rapper and I agree with you about her writing.

[@TheBlackSpeed]

I've never heard someone call her that and it honestly made me laugh lol but I think I know what you're trying to say. From a writer's/lines perspective.

[@Woodvale784]

When I heard this song for the first time a year ago it broke me, folklore lured me into her music, the tortured poets department sealed the deal.❤❤

[@DanielleFromMI]

I love the metaphor of this song and how she really weaves the theme through the whole thing. I think part of the reason Taylor’s lore is so popular in Swiftie community is because it makes great songs even more interesting.

[@savannahjones123]

I'm joining in on shouting into the comment section void to suggest songs. ❤ 1. Maroon 2. You're losing me 3. Champagne Problems (by far my favorite lyrically) 4. Happiness 5. Peace 6. Clean 7. Dancing with our hands tied 8. New years day 9. Don't blame me 10. Tim Mcgraw- yes, the vocals are baby swift, the music is solidly country. But incredibly clear writing for a 15 yr old (only she is credited on this song-no seasoned pros weighed in. Its all her)

[@linds.e.k]

1) thank you for the comments at the beginning about Swifties 😊 I think as much as you dislike blind love of fans, Swifties dislike blind hate of Taylor. So it’s 100% fine with us if someone gives her music a fair shot and ends up saying “no this isn’t for me, but if it’s for you that’s cool”. 2) Taylor herself has said she is a songwriter who sings her own music, rather than a singer who writes her own songs. I do think she has one of the best voices, and her range is insane, and I’m in love with her lower register, so I still say she is one of the greatest singers BUT I feel like everyone understands if you’re trying to compare her vocals to other famously insane vocalists, she’s not gonna land in the top tier. And that’s fine! 3) I think part of why Swifties love her songs so much is that whether you know the lore or not, they’re still amazing songs, but if you DO know the lore, it’s extra special and impactful because we’re following along in a never-ending story she’s telling us through her albums. Getting a new album from Taylor is like getting the next book in a series you’re addicted to. So this song, yes, is amazing even if you don’t know what it’s about - I think folks can relate to it if they’ve gone through a tough divorce or break up after a very long relationship. But knowing the real context does add an extra element of appreciation for the lyrics.

[@jernabean]

The more I listen to her music the more impressed I am with her lyricism!

[@alware82]

With Swifties, you are allowed to have personal preferences, as long as you give each song a chance and are respectful to “Mother”! I love watching people transition from fan to Swiftie! ❤

[@deb3451]

I have a hunch that recognizing any of her talents is enough. She wouldn't need for anyone to think she's the best singer ever, but being appreciated as a great musician/writer would def delight her, imo. (though her vocals in Who's Afraid of Little Old Me are stunning) AND, most importantly, when *anyone* gets a taste of the positivity she has a way of generating? That's the whole ball game. I appreciate you!

[@cassyf1949]

One doesn't need to know the background because the lyrics also work perfectly for the end of an intense friendship or relationship, where the person you trusted lost is now fighting against you. I recommend watching the Folklore Long Pond studio session when reacting to Folklore songs, because she gives some background to the song there before singing them. Totally interesting and making hearing her sing it even more emotional

[@LeslieDavis-jo3tm]

Her storytelling is what recently made me a fan at 60. I grew up a Bruce Springsteen fan who I thought was the best storyteller with his songwriting. I generally don't even listen to current artists. I like classic rock, early ,70's or Motown from the 60s, and ,70's and new age. Your terrific! See ya soon!❤

[@dopamine_fiend]

I think the song metaphor of the death was the death of their relationship Think the mob guy saying "You're dead to me". When she actually spoke about it, in the context of the people who you love can become your worst enemy. Welcome to Taylor's world. She has described herself as a songwriter who sings. She was hired at 14 by sony music publishing as a songwriter and one really key thing, is that she's a grafter. She works at her craft. She's done a lot to improve her singing techniques, and it's worth noting in her teens she was interviewed and said, "I give myself 20 minutes a day to enjoy this and I spend the rest of the time thinking about how I am going to make it last!" I think that applies to her approach to her vocals too. She's never going to push her limits, although she's definitely got a few surprises for you in terms of her vocals, particularly live!

[@zondra66]

I love the good bumps... her music speaks to my brain and soul and it takes a while to understand it but it is always so worth it... Her fans are intelligent and her use of the English language and words is very smart and a true delight for listeners. We can relate with our own worlds events but see how it is felt in her world as well. That is some seriously fabulous song writing. I agree if she didn't write the song, she'd not sing it.. and there are many songs she has written for others because she knew it had to be sung specifically by another's voice.

[@kcronin7211]

I love singing along to her...because my voice has some of the same limitations hers does. She doesn't belt a lot in her higher registers, for instance, and neither do I . As far as I'm concerned this is part of her appeal - she gives the IMPRESSION of being everywoman - many of us who have gone through the same crappy breakups she has (though obvs not with the scrutiny) - while at the same time being such an incredibly gifted songwriter she can tell an crazy personal tale and make all of us feel like it's OUR story, in a way we wish we could articulate but can't. She's really amazing. And I know like 1/10th of her catalog and wouldn't have paid the money to see Eras, etc, but she's just a phenom that can't be denied.

[@brilynn23]

You showing us the goosebumps was my favorite part of this video! ❤

[@TheBlackSpeed]

It's something I've done for quite some time and people seemed to love it haha so it's become a little trope of mine when it happens.

[@attorneycarissa]

I have those inner monologues all the time! 😂 I didn't become a "swiftie" until fifty. And I don't love all her songs, but so many speak to my soul, I love her. I'm so glad you can appreciate her, too. ❤

[@laurendovey226]

Taylor herself has even said she wants to be most known for her songwriting. I adore her voice. Her vocal range is underrated, but her songwriting is just in a whole different stratosphere.

[@hollyvickers2497]

She knows she's a better than writer than singer. She describes herself as a lyricist who sings her poems.

[@LoraBringley]

I understand exactly what you were explaining. And I completely respect your opinion. Everyone is entitled to their opinions and be met with no judgement for those opinions. And receive respect always. Be safe and make somebody smile.