Since her self-titled debut studio album in 2006, “Taylor Swift,” Swift has been a dominant figure in pop culture and music. Fan or not, it is pretty undeniable she has made some quality songs and projects throughout her career, making her worthy of her status as an icon of country pop/teen pop music. Even with what I believe was her most mediocre album, “Red,” it had some take away songs from it such as “Everything has Changed” with Ed Sheeran, which I thoroughly enjoyed. This is not the case with “1989.”
Having truly appreciated Swift’s first 3 albums and some of “Red,” I had high hopes when I heard “1989” was on the way. Her lead single off the album “Shake it Off” basically ruined all anticipation I had for the project, but naturally I had to give it a listen. I was extremely disappointed. The edits that went into Taylor Swift’s vocals on many of the songs on this album are unbelievably noticeable and completely unnecessary. She pulls through with easily some of her weakest lyrics ever, especially on songs such as “Blank Space,” “Bad Blood” and “Style.” Swift has always been able to relate to the masses through her style and relatable lyrics, which I give her credit for. Sure this is definitely Swift’s most pop influenced and upbeat album yet, but I cannot overlook the cliché concepts, overly simplified lyricism, and overall lack of thought put into this album. Truly, my biggest problem with the album though is the horrendously cheap, meager production. The production does not contribute in the slightest to Taylor Swift’s voice, lyrics, or honestly lend any authenticity to the album. All it shows is Swift and other album contributors are conscience of common present day mainstream themes. Ultimately, it suggests that Swift no longer has any way to differentiate herself while still remaining a pop star.