Taylor Swift's Speak Now with Taylor's Version
Taylor Swift enthusiasts are once again immersed in her musical world with the recent release of the reimagined edition of her 2010 album, "Speak Now."
This album marks the third in Swift's discography to be rereleased as "Taylor's Version," a strategic move aimed at reclaiming her artistic ownership following the contentious sale of her original master recordings in 2020. Preceding this release were the revamped versions of her albums "Fearless" and "Red."
"Taylor's Version" of "Speak Now" features re-recordings of the original 14 tracks, including two bonus songs from the 2010 edition ("Ours" and "Superman"). The beloved tracks like "Back to December," "Mine," "Sparks Fly," and "Mean" retain their essence while showcasing a more refined production and Swift's ever-confident vocals.
Devoted Swifties with an ear for detail have also noticed slight variations in the song lengths, differing by a second or two. Additionally, the lyrics of "Better Than Revenge" have been adjusted from "She's better known for the things that she does on the mattress" to "He was a moth to a flame, she was holding the matches."
In total, "Taylor's Version" of Taylor Swift's 2010 album "Speak Now" comprises 22 songs. However, the real treasure for fans lies in the inclusion of six new "vault" tracks, two of which feature collaborations with Fall Out Boy (on the anthemic "Electric Touch") and Paramore's Hayley Williams (the soaring ballad "Castles Crumbling").
Taylor Swift's Selections from 'Speak Now' on the Eras Tour
While Taylor Swift's mammoth Eras Tour encompasses her expansive discography, her nods to "Speak Now" have been relatively understated. Only one song from the album, "Enchanted," has been chosen to represent that specific era of her career.
During her concert in Minneapolis on June 24, Swift hinted at the impending re-release of the album by performing "Dear John" as one of her customary "surprise" songs at each show. Prior to launching into the nearly seven-minute scathing musical recount of her past relationship with John Mayer when she was 19, she requested her devoted fans not to engage in online harassment directed at Mayer.
She clarified, "I'm not releasing this album so that you feel compelled to defend me on the internet against someone you think I might have written a song about."
Taylor Swift's Eras Tour is an extensive undertaking scheduled to continue well into 2024, encompassing a series of overseas performances.
Unveiling the Finest 'Vault' Song on 'Speak Now (Taylor's Version)'
Among the six captivating new tracks on "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)," one particular song has sparked fervent speculation about its subject for weeks.
"When Emma Falls in Love" likely revolves around Swift's long-standing friend, actress Emma Stone, with whom she has shared a close bond since the late 2000s — a period coinciding with the creation of "Speak Now."
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While some of the lyrics hint at Emma herself falling in love ("Emma met a boy with eyes like a man, turns out her heart fits right in the palm of her hands"), a closer examination of Swift's words reveals a more profound sentiment — her admiration and affection for her friend.
As the song unfolds, blending elements from Swift's transition from country (including banjo) to pop (a beautiful piano melody), it gradually escalates from a gentle ballad to an explosive chorus. Swift sings, "'Cause she's the kind of girl that you can't put down, like if Cleopatra grew up in a small town.
Taylor Swift's |
And all of the bad boys would be good boys if only they had a chance to love her. And to tell you the truth, sometimes I wish I was her.
" This heartfelt admission not only showcases deep devotion but also reflects the profound impact Emma has had on Swift's life.
With the release of "Taylor's Version" of "Speak Now," fans are treated to a revitalized experience of Swift's artistry while witnessing her reclamation of creative control.
The album's polished tracks, the inclusion of exciting new songs, and Swift's ongoing Eras Tour all contribute to the continued growth and evolution of one of today's most influential musicians.