When Taylor Swift’s 12th studio album was first announced on August 13 of 2025 fans were already speculating as the number 13 is known to be the favorite and most lucky number of the singer, hence the date of announcement. As more information was revealed about the album fans discovered that there were also 12 songs on the new album, and upon discussion over podcast with Swift’s fiance Travis Kelce he describes “The Life of a Showgirl” as being very upbeat and a call back to her upbeat pop days.

Upon listening to the album as it was released on October 3, 2025 through Republic Records it is obvious through her lyrics, song names and upbeat tone that it is effectively a love letter to Kelce. Throughout the album the cheerful beat seems to be a reflection of her improved state of mind since her last album “The Tortured Poets Department” which had an overall melancholy undone vibe. There also seems to be influence from featured artist Sabrina Carpenter which was shown through similar types of humor and language reflected by the artists.

Taylor Swift has been met with mixed reactions to the new style and lyricism. Some songs are loved, some are hated, but it can be agreed that Swift’s fans are grateful to see her improved mental state. However the general sentiment about the album itself seems to be mediocre with some mockery of lyrics like “girlboss too close to the sun” or the entire intro to “Eldest Daughter”. Although for me personally, like many others, I was disappointed by Swift’s upbeat 12th studio album, there were still some favorites.

5. Cancelled! 

Although there were some cringe-worthy lyrics throughout the song, I enjoyed the themes of glamour and the backlash faced by successful women. The themes are similar to Taylor Swift’s past songs about the public trying to “cancel” her or bring down her fame, similarly to her 6th studio album “Reputation.” Theories are currently circulating among fans about the song being about Brittany Mahomes after receiving fire because of her public support for President Trump.

4. Ruin the Friendship

Despite its energetic beat consistent with the rest of the album, the lyrics can be described as nothing but heartbreaking. Swift describes the song as one that “whistfully goes back in time to moments where you hesitated, moments that you were too scared or anxious to do something that you were really curious about” during an interview with Amazon Music. Her advice to fans is to always “Ruin the Friendship” instead of regretting not taking the risk for the rest of their lives. The lines “When I lost track of you/ Abigail called me with the bad news/ Goodbye/ and we’ll never know why” and “It was not convenient, no/ But I whispered at the grave/ ‘Should’ve kissed you anyway’” could be a call back to her late friend Jeff Lang.

3. Actually Romantic

This song has been the subject of some controversy and speculation since it was released because of its reference to a pop star who is not named in the song. Fans did some digging and came to the generally accepted conclusion that it is a Charli XCX diss track. Swift describes the song as being “a love letter to someone who hates you” creating a mocking tone.

2. Wi$h Li$t

This song has a very similar feel to her “Reputation” album in terms of its dark pop style which describes the future that she wants with Travis Kelce. She sings about her desire for real love and a family of her own. As Swift describes the life she wants she sings “I just want you/ Have a couple of kids/ Got the whole block looking like you” and “Got me dreaming bout a driveway/ with a basketball hoop/ Boss up, settle down.” Swift describes the track as making her “feel like I’m floating on clouds.”

1. Father Figure

This was my personal favorite song of the album because of the sinister lyrics that counteract the classic pop beat. The song is a spin on George Michael’s “Father Figure” which comes from the perspective of a man who desires to be a “preacher” and a “teacher” to a younger lover. Swift borrowed the concept and beat from the song and sings it from the perspective of a mentor in the music industry who asks for loyalty in return for the help. The love in the song is described as being “pure profit.”