What an absolute legend Taylor Swift has become. But this isn’t the time or place to out myself as a Swiftie (if I was one), so I think we’ll focus on the music for the time being.

At #99 on the Rolling Stone list, this album has gained a massive amount of respect in the music community. I’m sure there are a variety of reasons for that - popular success, the songwriting, the way she’s connected with her audience in a way few artists ever have.

Personally, I think it takes a special kind of genius to write such simple and hook-y songs as the two major singles from this album, while also experimenting with your entire sound as an artist, changing genres, and generally going through all kinds of drama in life at the same time. People who say Red isn’t genius are wrong - but I can still see plenty of space for people who say they simply don’t like the music. It’s thoughtfully crafted to connect with a specific audience who speaks the same emotional language as Taylor, and if you’re not among that crowd, it might not land right. And that’s totally fine - just don’t deny the genius of it all.

Jams

“Red”
“Begin Again”

Originally part of Understanding My Musical Taste With... Data!.