Taylor Swift is one of the most successful and popular artists of our time, having released eight studio albums and sold over 150 million records worldwide. Known for her personal and emotional songwriting, as well as her catchy pop hooks and relatable lyrics, Swift has amassed a legion of fans over the course of her career. With so many incredible songs to choose from, it can be difficult to narrow down a list of her best tracks. However, after much consideration and analysis, we have compiled a definitive list of the top 20 best Taylor Swift songs of all time.
In this article, we will take a deep dive into Swift’s discography and explore the most memorable and impactful songs of her career. From her early country roots to her later pop stylings, we will examine the evolution of Swift’s sound and the themes that have dominated her music over the years. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to Swift’s music, this list is sure to provide a comprehensive overview of her greatest hits and most beloved tracks. So sit back, grab your headphones, and prepare to revisit some of the most iconic moments in Taylor Swift’s discography.
1. “Blank Space” by Taylor Swift
“Blank Space” is a 2014 single from Taylor Swift’s fifth studio album, “1989.” The song, which was co-written and produced by Max Martin and Shellback, is a satirical take on Swift’s public image as a serial dater. With its upbeat pop production and tongue-in-cheek lyrics, “Blank Space” sees Swift playing up the “crazy girlfriend” stereotype and embracing her reputation as a romantic disaster. The music video, directed by Joseph Kahn, further emphasizes this theme by depicting Swift as a vengeful, manipulative lover who drives her beau to madness. Despite its humorous approach, “Blank Space” was a commercial and critical success, becoming one of Swift’s biggest hits to date.
2. “Love Story” by Taylor Swift
“Love Story” is a 2008 single from Taylor Swift’s second studio album, “Fearless.” The song, which was written and produced by Swift, is a modern take on the classic tale of Romeo and Juliet, reimagining the tragic love story with a happy ending. With its catchy pop-country melody and romantic lyrics, “Love Story” quickly became a fan favorite and a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. The music video, which features Swift in a fairy tale setting, further emphasized the song’s romantic themes. “Love Story” remains one of Swift’s most iconic and beloved songs to this day.
3. “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift
“Shake It Off” is a 2014 single from Taylor Swift’s fifth studio album, “1989.” The song, which was co-written and produced by Max Martin and Shellback, is an upbeat, danceable pop track that sees Swift shrugging off her haters and embracing her individuality. With its infectious hook and memorable chorus, “Shake It Off” became an instant hit and a staple of Swift’s live shows. The music video, which features Swift performing various dance styles and outfits, further emphasized the song’s themes of self-confidence and self-expression. “Shake It Off” remains one of Swift’s most popular and recognizable songs.
4. “You Belong With Me” by Taylor Swift
“You Belong With Me” is a 2008 single from Taylor Swift’s second studio album, “Fearless.” The song, which was written by Swift and Liz Rose and produced by Nathan Chapman, tells the story of a girl who longs for her crush to notice her and see that she’s the one who truly understands him. With its catchy melody and relatable lyrics, “You Belong With Me” became an instant fan favorite and a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. The music video, which features Swift playing both the protagonist and the popular girl, further emphasized the song’s themes of unrequited love and teenage angst.
5. “Delicate” by Taylor Swift
“Delicate” is a 2018 single from Taylor Swift’s sixth studio album, “reputation.” The song, which was written by Swift and co-produced by Max Martin and Shellback, is a dreamy, mid-tempo pop track that sees Swift reflecting on the early stages of a new relationship. With its atmospheric production and intimate lyrics, “Delicate” is a departure from the bombastic, aggressive sound of the rest of the album. The music video, which features Swift dancing and frolicking through a magical, surreal landscape, further emphasizes the song’s themes of vulnerability and emotional openness. “Delicate” was a critical and commercial success, solidifying Swift’s status as a versatile and talented songwriter.
6. “Style” by Taylor Swift
“Style” is a 2014 single from Taylor Swift’s fifth studio album, “1989.” The song, which was co-written and produced by Max Martin and Shellback, is a sleek, synth-heavy track that sees Swift reminiscing about a past relationship and its enduring impact on her life. With its infectious melody and sultry, 80s-inspired production, “Style” quickly became a fan favorite and a commercial success. The music video, which features Swift posing and dancing in various glamorous outfits and settings, further emphasizes the song’s themes of beauty, style, and sensuality. “Style” remains one of Swift’s most iconic and beloved songs.
7. “Wildest Dreams” by Taylor Swift
“Wildest Dreams” is a 2015 single from Taylor Swift’s fifth studio album, “1989.” The song, which was written by Swift and Max Martin and produced by Martin and Shellback, is a lush, dreamy pop ballad that sees Swift yearning for a romance that’s as intense and fleeting as a wild dream. With its evocative production and cinematic lyrics, “Wildest Dreams” became an instant fan favorite and a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. The music video, which features Swift in a glamorous Old Hollywood setting, further emphasized the song’s themes of passion, nostalgia, and longing. “Wildest Dreams” remains one of Swift’s most beloved and memorable songs.
8. “Lover” by Taylor Swift
“Lover” is a 2019 single from Taylor Swift’s seventh studio album of the same name. The song, which was written by Swift and produced by Jack Antonoff, is a romantic, slow-burning ballad that sees Swift expressing her devotion and commitment to her partner. With its tender lyrics and gentle instrumentation, “Lover” showcases a more mature and introspective side of Swift’s songwriting. The music video, which features Swift and her real-life partner Joe Alwyn in a dreamy, pastel-colored world, further emphasizes the song’s themes of love, intimacy, and trust. “Lover” was a critical and commercial success, further cementing Swift’s reputation as a skilled and versatile songwriter.
9. “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” by Taylor Swift
“We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” is a 2012 single from Taylor Swift’s fourth studio album, “Red.” The song, which was written by Swift, Max Martin, and Shellback and produced by Martin and Shellback, is an upbeat, sassy pop track that sees Swift telling off an ex-boyfriend and declaring that their relationship is over for good. With its catchy chorus and playful, self-assured lyrics, “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” became an instant fan favorite and a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. The music video, which features Swift in various wacky costumes and settings, further emphasized the song’s themes of empowerment and self-confidence. “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” remains one of Swift’s most popular and memorable songs.
10. “Fearless” by Taylor Swift
“Fearless” is a 2009 single from Taylor Swift’s second studio album of the same name. The song, which was written by Swift and Liz Rose and produced by Nathan Chapman and Swift, is a romantic, mid-tempo country pop ballad that sees Swift expressing her feelings of excitement and vulnerability in a new relationship. With its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, “Fearless” became an instant fan favorite and a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. The music video, which features Swift performing in various romantic settings, further emphasized the song’s themes of love, hope, and optimism. “Fearless” remains one of Swift’s most beloved and influential songs, helping to establish her as a major force in country and pop music.
11. “All Too Well” by Taylor Swift
“All Too Well” is a heart-wrenching ballad from Taylor Swift’s fourth studio album, “Red.” The song, which was co-written by Swift and Liz Rose and produced by Nathan Chapman and Swift, tells the story of a passionate and tumultuous relationship that ultimately falls apart. With its poignant lyrics and haunting melody, “All Too Well” has been praised by critics and fans alike as one of Swift’s most emotionally resonant and lyrically sophisticated songs. Although it was never released as an official single, “All Too Well” has become one of Swift’s most popular and iconic songs, further cementing her reputation as a powerful and authentic songwriter.
12. “Cruel Summer” by Taylor Swift
“Cruel Summer” is a 2019 single from Taylor Swift’s seventh studio album, “Lover.” The song, which was written by Swift, Jack Antonoff, and Annie Clark and produced by Antonoff, is a dark and moody pop track that explores the emotional complexities of a summer romance. With its haunting vocals and atmospheric production, “Cruel Summer” has been praised by critics as one of Swift’s most mature and innovative songs. The music video, which features Swift and a group of dancers in a surreal, dreamlike setting, further emphasizes the song’s themes of longing, desire, and uncertainty. “Cruel Summer” remains a fan favorite and a highlight of Swift’s discography.
13. “August” by Taylor Swift
“August” is a 2020 single from Taylor Swift’s eighth studio album, “Folklore.” The song, which was written by Swift and Aaron Dessner and produced by Dessner, is a nostalgic and dreamy folk-pop track that tells the story of a fleeting summer romance. With its intimate vocals and lush, atmospheric instrumentation, “August” has been praised by critics as one of Swift’s most emotionally resonant and musically ambitious songs. The music video, which features vintage home movie footage of a summer vacation, further emphasizes the song’s themes of memory, loss, and the bittersweet passage of time. “August” remains a standout track from “Folklore” and a fan favorite.
14. “Mean” by Taylor Swift
“Mean” is a single from Taylor Swift’s third studio album, “Speak Now.” The song, which was written by Swift and produced by Nathan Chapman, is a country-pop anthem about bullying and standing up for oneself. With its catchy melody and empowering lyrics, “Mean” has become an iconic song in Swift’s discography, earning critical acclaim and commercial success. The music video, which features Swift in a vintage-inspired setting, further emphasizes the song’s themes of resilience, self-confidence, and perseverance. “Mean” has since become a fan favorite and a cultural touchstone, solidifying Swift’s reputation as a trailblazing songwriter and performer.
15. “Our Song” by Taylor Swift
“Our Song” is a single from Taylor Swift’s eponymous debut studio album. The song, which was written by Swift, is a sweet and upbeat country-pop track about a young couple’s romantic milestones. With its catchy melody and relatable lyrics, “Our Song” became a breakthrough hit for Swift, earning critical and commercial success. The music video, which features Swift performing in a rural setting, further emphasizes the song’s themes of simplicity, innocence, and young love. “Our Song” remains a beloved fan favorite and a testament to Swift’s early songwriting talent and charm.
16. “22” by Taylor Swift
“22” is a single from Taylor Swift’s fourth studio album, “Red.” The song, which was co-written by Swift and Max Martin and produced by Martin and Shellback, is a fun and carefree pop track about the joys of being young and carefree. With its catchy chorus and upbeat instrumentation, “22” has become a fan favorite and a popular anthem for birthdays and celebrations. The music video, which features Swift and her friends having a wild and colorful party, further emphasizes the song’s themes of friendship, spontaneity, and living in the moment. “22” remains a beloved and timeless addition to Swift’s discography.
17. “The Story Of Us” by Taylor Swift
“The Story of Us” is a single from Taylor Swift’s third studio album, “Speak Now.” The song, which was written by Swift and produced by Nathan Chapman, is a guitar-driven power pop track about the breakdown of a relationship. With its angsty lyrics and soaring chorus, “The Story of Us” showcases Swift’s ability to express complex emotions through her music. The music video, which features Swift and her ex-boyfriend reuniting at a formal event, further emphasizes the song’s themes of missed opportunities and regret. “The Story of Us” remains a fan favorite and a testament to Swift’s songwriting talent and versatility.
18. “Red” by Taylor Swift
“Red” is the title track and lead single from Taylor Swift’s fourth studio album of the same name. The song, which was written by Swift and produced by Nathan Chapman and Dann Huff, is an emotional and introspective ballad about the various shades and stages of a romantic relationship. With its vivid imagery and soaring chorus, “Red” has become one of Swift’s most beloved and enduring songs, resonating with fans all over the world. The music video, which features Swift singing in a variety of moody settings, further emphasizes the song’s themes of passion, heartbreak, and longing.
19. “Everything Has Changed” by Taylor Swift ft. Ed Sheeran
“Everything Has Changed” is a collaboration between Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran, released as a single from Swift’s fourth studio album, “Red.” The song, which was co-written by Swift and Sheeran and produced by Butch Walker, is a sweet and nostalgic duet about falling in love and the transformative power of a special connection. With its simple acoustic arrangement and heartfelt vocals from both artists, “Everything Has Changed” is a beautiful and intimate portrait of young love. The music video, which features two children representing Swift and Sheeran meeting and bonding, further emphasizes the song’s innocent and tender message.
20. “Back To December” by Taylor Swift
“Back to December” is a song by Taylor Swift from her third studio album, “Speak Now”. The song, which was written by Swift and produced by Nathan Chapman, is an emotional and introspective ballad about a past relationship that ended badly. Swift’s heartfelt lyrics and vulnerable vocal performance convey her regret and desire to make amends, as she reflects on her mistakes and wishes she could go back in time. The music video, which features Swift in a wintery setting and a former lover who haunts her memories, further emphasizes the song’s bittersweet and nostalgic tone. “Back to December” has become a fan favorite and is often cited as one of Swift’s most poignant and relatable songs.
Jason Smith is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
