Top ten Taylor Swift albums (Carly’s Version)

As many hardcore Swifties and dedicated Arts and Entertainment readers may recall, my fellow Lamron staff member and dearest friend Matt Keller gave his official rankings of Taylor Swift’s albums in early March. Keller’s ranking was certainly well-informed and valid; however, in the spirit of ongoing scholarly conversation (and this truly is something to be studied), I have taken it upon myself to provide my own rankings of the beloved artist’s albums. 

Given that I have been an avid Swiftie since 2006 and that I ranked in Swift’s top 0.5% of listeners on Spotify last year, ranking these albums was quite a feat. With that said, “this is me trying” to compartmentalize Swift’s genius. To maintain journalistic integrity, it must be said that these rankings are subject to change depending on what resonates with my present realities, but I can assure you that these rankings are carefully curated for the best results. 

Ten: Taylor Swift (2006)

While Swift’s debut album undoubtedly has a special spot in my heart for being the disc I constantly popped into my portable CD player during my childhood, it must unfortunately take last place. It must be noted, however, that it is still an amazing and heartfelt album, especially considering that she released it at the young age of 16. It holds so much nostalgia and is priceless for kickstarting her life of stardom.

Nine: Fearless (2008/2021)

This placement is not to say that there are no timeless classics on this album—“You Belong with Me,” “Fifteen,” and “White Horse” will surely outlive us all. Much like Taylor Swift, this album is great in the way that it is nostalgic and showcases Swift’s unabashed vulnerability. The Fearless era is simply iconic and the music that defines it continues to impact the lives of Swifties, especially after its re-release. 

Eight: Midnights (2022)

I am aware that this ranking may upset many readers, and I understand why. In fact, I experienced intense inner turmoil ranking Midnights here. This is especially because “Would’ve, Could’ve, Should’ve” has quickly become one of my favorite songs of all time; moreover, “Anti-Hero” and “You’re on Your Own Kid” are songs that I deeply relate to. The only reason that this work of genius falls so low is merely because of time; I am sure that as the years go by, it may surpass others that are currently higher on the list. 

Seven: reputation (2017)

Sonically and thematically, reputation is seemingly exactly what Swift intended it to be: an empowering track list that shows you can be in love and still be a badass. If one is looking to channel their confidence, they need look no further than “This Is Why We Can’t Have Nice Things” or “I Did Something Bad.” Similarly, “Getaway Car” and “Dress” give listeners an immediate boost of serotonin. As Swift clapped back against her haters on this album, she made it clear that she is, and always will be, a force to be reckoned with. 

Six: Lover (2019)

I am choosing to ignore the rumors of Swift’s breakup with Joe Alwyn as I say that Lover is timeless. Not only does this album explore the dreamy yet complex nature of relationships, but it gracefully delves into life’s inevitable nuances and anxieties. Two of my favorite songs out of all of Swift’s discography are on Lover: “The Archer” and “Death by a Thousand Cuts” are works of brilliance that one could listen to for years and still derive new meanings from each time. Lover is distinct and unique, yet it also compliments aspects found within each of Swift’s albums, thus establishing itself as a powerhouse. 

Five: evermore (2020)

In her second surprise album of 2020, Swift produced a track list for evermore that arguably contains her most powerful and deep-cutting lyrical works. From “champagne problems” to “tolerate it” to “marjorie,” her dexterity in utilizing language to tell stories through music. It came at a time when things in the world were extremely bleak, and it continues to speak to the truths of the human condition. While some emotions often seem too difficult to express, evermore perfectly articulates them with power and precision. 

Four: Red (2012/2021)

Red is a glowing testament to the way in which Swift crafts her music and identity: she can simultaneously create catchy songs like “I Knew You Were Trouble” and “22” while also producing heart-wrenching ballads such as “Treacherous” and “I Almost Do.” Of course, one of the album’s major strengths is that it contains “All Too Well,” which was powerful in its original form and became even more compelling in the ten-minute version. Whether I listen to it at 11 years old or 22, it continues to speak to the way in which Swift’s music can unpack the tumultuous ups and downs of life and relationships. 

Three: 1989 (2014)

What isn’t there to say about the brilliance of 1989? It is simply extraordinary. The entire vibe of the album is something that brings out an intense wave of emotions, and it is in 1989 that Swift finds a perfect balance between her signature upbeat sound with detailed storytelling. The range from “How You Get The Girl” to “Clean” is a science that only Swift herself can execute. Of course, “Out of the Woods” is, and always will be, a classic that one can sing to at the top of their lungs in the car or on the dance floor. 1989 is a work of art, and the world will surely erupt into celebration when 1989 (Taylor’s Version) finally comes to fruition. 

Two: Speak Now (2010)

It must be said that I have an emotional attachment to Speak Now since I attended the tour; but, even if I had not gone to the tour, this album is by far one of Swift’s best works. The pure emotion that Swift evokes through Speak Now is mind-blowing. “Innocent” and “Dear John” are songs that I continue to sob to no matter how long it has been since the album’s release, and “Enchanted” and “Haunted” make me scream at the top of my lungs each time I listen to them. Ultimately, Speak Now is an astounding showcase of the beauty that Swift encapsulates in her artistry and it will always have an indescribable impact on me as an individual. 

One: folklore (2020)

To be honest, I could have written this entire article solely in praise of folklore, and it undoubtedly deserves the top spot in this ranking. folklore is not only an album, but a collection of poetry. It is indescribably beautiful and cohesive, and it came as a saving grace at a time of tumult (both for the world and for myself). Of course, one of the most notable components of the album is the trilogy of “cardigan,” “august,” and “betty,” and while these songs are about characters, it is so easy to connect one’s own experiences to the lyrics. Moreover, “mirrorball” and “peace” are so multifaceted in the best ways and speak to the constant anxiety and intrusive thoughts that many people experience—myself included. This album continues to be a gift to the world, and we are forever indebted to Swift for this absolute masterpiece.

Thumbnail Photo via Wikimedia Commons