Taylor Swift’s latest album release, “The Life of a Showgirl,” has certainly sparked its share of online chatter and divided opinions, but after giving it my fair share of listens, I absolutely love this bright, enthusiastic and fun record that stands out in her discography. The negativity surrounding it is completely unwarranted.
The album is a welcome departure from the more melancholy projects of her recent past. Swift clearly embraced a different headspace, while reuniting with the genre of energetic pop to deliver 12 tracks bursting with energy. The infectious and danceable beats are a breath of fresh air. It’s an album full of her known pure experiences, and after the emotional density of albums like “The Tortured Poets Department” or even the vulnerability of “Folklore” and “Evermore,” this pivot to a more playful vibe feels earned and deeply satisfying.
The pop album sparked major online drama because of the song “Actually Romantic,” which is widely seen as a diss track aimed at artist Charli XCX, reigniting a rumored feud. The song’s lyrics contain specific, unflattering call-outs that fans interpret as a direct response to Charli’s earlier track, “Sympathy is a Knife.” Swift’s core strategy in “Actually Romantic” is to dismiss her rival by framing the intense dislike as a flattering, romantic obsession, comparing Charli to a “toy chihuahua,” a move that critics found unnecessarily aggressive.
Despite the discourse surrounding the controversies, the album remains fundamentally enjoyable. My personal favorite track, easily, is “Wood.” I know some of the lyrics have raised eyebrows online, but I genuinely appreciate the playful, slightly risque tone. It is so catchy and full of cheeky double entendres that it makes me smile every time. It is a perfect example of the “infectiously joyful and wild” energy she promised.
What I appreciate most is the album’s embrace of lightheartedness. I am so grateful for this vibrant sound and the more playful, upbeat lyrics, especially after the more somber and heartbreak-driven narratives we have heard from her recently. “The Life of a Showgirl” is a testament to finding happiness and running with it — a celebratory, vibrant pop record that deserves to be played at full volume.
