Deep Dive Into Taylor Swift’s “Midnights”

Taylor Swift is arguably one of the most influential women of the decade. Not only does she write her own music, but she tells a story through it as well. “Midnights” is an album that tells a story about thirteen restless nights throughout her life. It exhibits a range of emotions and each song can be connected to a different album of hers. 

Initially, there was a lot of hate towards the album because it explores elements of indie pop, electropop and dream pop, which is new in her experimentation. It gives off similar vibes to “Melodrama” by Lorde and “Born to Die” by Lana Del Rey. 

As Swift has gotten older, her music style has continuously changed. We have watched her stray away from her pop princess era into more adult themes within her song writing. I thought that “Midnights” was a sweet combination of many of her other popular songs. 

Although I do prefer her mature voice in her previous albums “Folklore” and “Evermore,” I think it was a nice break in her discography to add Midnights. It has the same lighthearted mood as “Lover” while also incorporating tougher topics like her eating disorder and mental health struggles. 

However, I don’t think this was her best work, lyrically speaking. Her choruses are catchy and her bridges are strong, but the space in between is lacking. Many agree that the song verses come off as a little bit cringey compared to her other albums and that due to her age and relationship status, Swift can no longer relate to relevant terms used by teenagers. 

However, this new era is refreshing and utilizes less of her mellow and folk like melodies while maintaining that same feel in her songwriting. Swift uses different genres to pursue a genre of pop with high production quality. “Midnights” is a mixture of “Lover,” “Red,” “Reputation” and “Folklore,” which is why it appeals to so many of her new and longtime fans.  

Quinn’s Hot Takes

Lavender Haze: This song gives off similar energy to her “Lover” album while maintaining a chill undertone. It is the perfect song for driving through light fog at night by the coastline.

Maroon: This is an upbeat and uses the emotion of different shades of “Red” to tell a story. 

Anti-Hero: This track is hands down her most popular track so far and it highlights her overthinking and inner anxieties to show us a more human side of her.

Snow On The Beach: This is a beautiful melancholy tune that perfectly utilizes Lana Del Rey’s vocals but not her talents. She definitely has a huge impact on the way we hear the song but she should’ve been given her own verse.

You’re On Your Own, Kid: This hit has overall the best bridge that comforts the listener. It expresses emotions of growing up and having to go off into the world. This song is like your childhood home and nights spent by the fireplace.