Taylor Swift is arguably one of the most famous singers of all time - so even if you're not a fan, you're sure to know some of her songs. And if you are one of her beloved Swifties, then you might think you know everything there is to know about her and her music. But it turns out there's a lot more to be uncovered. Keep scrolling for hidden meanings in the music icon's songs that even her biggest fans didn't pick up on.
"We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together" Makes Fun of Jake Gyllenhaal's Favorite Music
You know that feeling when you break up with someone, and they try to win you back with their questionable mixtapes? Yeah, Taylor Swift knows it too, and she masterfully turns it into a playful pop anthem with "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together." It's like holding up a mirror to those exes who thought a cheesy playlist could save the relationship. Sorry, Jake Gyllenhaal, but your taste in music couldn't save your status with Taylor.
She was not a fan of his music taste, and that is something that someone like Taylor would consider important considering she is a musician herself.
"Better Than Revenge" Was Taylor's Response to Camilla Belle and Joe Jonas Dating
When Taylor Swift found out her ex, Joe Jonas, was dating Camilla Belle, she channeled her feelings into the fiery anthem "Better Than Revenge." It's like reclaiming your power after a messy breakup, with a dash of revenge for good measure. Of course, we can't condone prolonged grudges, but hey, at least she transformed her anger into a catchy track. It's a reminder that even superstars have their moments of seeking sweet, sweet retaliation.
No one likes to see their ex dating a new person so it makes sense that Taylor has feelings just like everyone else. She wanted to express them and she did that in her music.
A Touching Tribute in "Soon You'll Get Better"
Family comes first for Taylor Swift, and "Soon You'll Get Better" is a heartfelt dedication to her mom and her health challenges. It's a beautiful reminder that no matter how tough things get, Taylor is always there to offer love and support. This emotional track reminds us of the power of family and the strength that comes from sticking together through life's hurdles. It must have given her mom so much hope and strength when she heard it.
It's a very beautiful way to show that she is standing by her mom even in the hardest of times.
Reminiscing Her Unhappy 21st Birthday in "The Moment I Knew"
Everyone has been there - eagerly counting down the days to the 21st birthday, expecting a celebration that's worthy of a blockbuster movie. But life has a way of throwing curveballs, and Taylor Swift experienced that firsthand. Her song "The Moment I Knew" is about her less-than-joyful 21st birthday. Talk about a birthday bummer! It just goes to show that even pop stars have their fair share of disappointing milestones.
She was sad that her boyfriend at the time was not at her party. Jake Gyllenhall simply stood her up on one of the most important days of her life.
"Hey Stephen" Is Actually About Stephen Barker
While most people think that Taylor's "Hey Stephen" is about Stephen Colbert, it is not. Taylor subtly conceals numerous clues about the meanings behind her songs, and in this particular instance, she subtly nods to "Love and Theft," and the country duo which includes singer Stephen Barker. When the duo had a tour with Taylor is when she wrote this song. Most people misinterpreted it to be talking about the TV host, but Taylor had someone else in mind.
It's easy to mix up some of the famous Stephens in the world, so it would make sense that people would jump to the wrong person, it is a common name!
"Long Story Short" Shows That Tom Hiddleston Was Just a Rebound
When it comes to rebounds, Taylor Swift is the queen of making them into chart-topping hits. Enter "Long Story Short," the anthem that spills the tea on her whirlwind romance with Tom Hiddleston. It's like a sequel to the drama she had with Kanye West – a rebound that was destined to be just a blip in the grand storyline of her life. Sorry, Tom, but you were just a stop on her journey to self-discovery.
This probably wasn't too much of a shock to Tom. After all, people usually can tell that they are a rebound and not a long term option.
"Better Man" Is About a Mysterious Former Lover
You'd think "Better Man" is just another breakup anthem, right? Well, here's the plot twist: it wasn't actually written by Taylor Swift for herself. She gifted it to Little Big Town, and it's about a mysterious ex-lover who clearly missed the memo on how to treat our gal Tay. It's like re-gifting, but instead of passing along an unwanted present, she's passing along some serious feels and a song that would become famous.
No one knows who she was talking about when she spoke of a "better man" but maybe it is better left unknown.
"Mad Woman" Was a Targeted Takedown of Ex-Manager Scooter Braun
They say revenge is a dish best served cold, but Taylor Swift takes it to a whole new level in "Mad Woman." It's a targeted takedown aimed directly at her ex-manager, Scooter Braun. It's like wielding a pen as a weapon, crafting lyrics that cut deep and expose the inner workings of the music industry. You don't want to mess with Taylor when she's in "Mad Woman" mode...no one does.
She's got the talent, the tunes, and the sharp lyrics to back it up. You have to admit that after what he did, he really deserved it though.
"Back to December" Was an Apology to Taylor Lautner
Everyone has had those moments where they wish they could turn back time and do things differently. Well, Taylor Swift channeled that remorse into "Back to December," her heartfelt apology to Taylor Lautner from Twilight fame. It's like stepping into a time machine of vulnerability, where regret takes center stage. But hey, at least she can use her lyrics to say sorry in a way that most of us can only dream of. Keep those heartfelt apologies rolling, Taylor!
It's rare to see a celebrity make a public apology to anyone. It is both rare and refreshing at the same time.
"Fifteen" Mentions the Name of Taylor's Real-Life Childhood Bestie Abigail
Everyone remembers the glory days of being fifteen, right? Taylor Swift certainly does, and she reminisces through her song aptly titled "Fifteen." It's like a musical time machine that transports us back to braces, awkward crushes, and the drama of high school. But here's the best part, it name-drops her childhood bestie Abigail. Ah, the power of a solid friendship. Cheers to the Abigails of the world who stick by us even during our most cringeworthy moments!
The most heartwarming part of this is that Taylor is still friends with her childhood bestie Abigail even years later. The fame didn't break their bond.
"Bad Blood" Was About a Backup Dancer Who Dropped Her for Katy Perry
Ah, the drama of backup dancer loyalty. Taylor Swift knows it all too well, and she transformed that betrayal into "Bad Blood." It's like a musical clapback for the dancer who jumped ship from her Red tour to join Katy Perry's Prism tour. It's a reminder that when someone stabs you in the back, there's nothing like a catchy anthem to show them what they're missing out on, even if they tried to sabotage your entire tour.
Whether or not that was a career ender for the backup dancer doesn't really make too much of a difference, as it really was "bad blood."
"Wonderland": When Her Friendship With Dianna Agron Sparked Speculation
Remember when Taylor became friends with Dianna Agron, and people mistook their close bond for something more? Well, "Wonderland" sets the record straight. It's a catchy tune that pays homage to their platonic friendship and all the adventures they embarked on together. Can't a girl and her pal have some fun without people assuming a romantic entanglement? Friendship rocks, people and even though many were excited about a potential romance, just being friends is good as well.
Even if you're the biggest Swiftie you probably never thought that this was the history behind the song. There's always something new to learn!
Jack Antonoff's Love Story Inspires Taylor in "You Are In Love"
Love is a beautiful thing, and "You Are In Love" captures that head-over-heels feeling perfectly. But did you know this heartfelt track was actually inspired by Jack Antonoff's relationship with Lena Dunham? The song became a tribute to their love story, transformed into a melody that encapsulates the magic of falling madly for someone. They say art imitates life, and Taylor knows just how to turn real-life experiences into musical masterpieces.
It seems that Taylor really loves to get inspiration from things around her. And isn't that the easiest way to write a song anyway, from what you know?
“This Is Why We Can't Have Nice Things” Is a Jab at Kanye West
Brace yourselves, folks, because Taylor takes aim at none other than Kanye West in this sassy track. It's like she's declaring war on the drama and calling out his notorious antics. This song serves as the perfect anthem for anyone who's ever encountered a friendship gone sour. Taylor's message is loud and clear: "Enough is enough, Kanye!" Who needs nice things when you can have a killer track like this one?
Maybe next time Kanye will think twice before he starts to make drama and a problem with Taylor.
"Dear John” Was to Talk About How John Mayer Mistreated Her
Taylor Swift is known for pouring her heart into her lyrics, and "Dear John" is no exception. This heartbreaking ballad is all about her relationship with singer-songwriter John Mayer. She doesn't hold back as she lays bare the mistreatment she endured at his hands. It's like she's saying, "Hey John, you messed with the wrong girl!" This song serves as a reminder that even the brightest stars can be burned by love's flame.
John probably should have been careful going up against someone who holds a pen and has a platform to the world.
“Getaway Car” Is About Leaving Calvin Harris for Tom Hoddleston
Buckle up, Taylor Swift fans, because we're about to go on a wild ride. This electrifying tune is all about Taylor leaving her ex-boyfriend Calvin Harris for the swoon-worthy Tom Hiddleston. It's like she hopped into the getaway car of love, liberating herself from the past and embracing a whirlwind romance. Sometimes, you have to burn rubber and speed off into the sunset to find your happily ever after, or at least try.
That relationship didn't work out either, but she felt the need to give it a try regardless. And she didn't seem to regret it, but even got a nice song out of it.
Joe Jonas Faces the Music in "Forever & Always"
Everyone remembers the Taylor Swift-Joe Jonas saga, right? Well, Taylor didn't hold back when she called out Joe in "Forever & Always." It's a sassy anthem that reveals her heartbreak and disappointment after their relationship ended abruptly. Taylor knows how to turn personal experiences into hit songs, and Joe Jonas got a front-row seat to that process. Taylor really seems to enjoy taking personal situations and making them into a song.
Maybe the fact that Taylor draws inspiration from her experiences is why her music is so adored and she is so appreciated.
"I Knew You Were Trouble" Told the World Taylor Swift Knew Harry Styles Was Trouble
When it comes to deciphering Taylor Swift's songs, you need the precision of a detective. Take "I Knew You Were Trouble," for example. It's like Taylor got a crystal ball and saw that Harry Styles was about to bring some serious drama into her life. Ah, the perils of dating fellow celebs. At least she turned their tumultuous relationship into a catchy hit! She knew he was trouble and wanted to tell the world.
Even if he was trouble and he wasn't the best fit for her, it's good that she was able to make a song out of it and move on from the relationship.
In "Clean," She Tells Everyone She Is Over Harry Styles
Breaking up is hard to do, but moving on? Well, that's a whole different ballgame. Taylor Swift shouts it to the world in "Clean." It's like standing on a mountaintop and screaming, "I'm over you, Harry Styles!" We've all been there, trying to tidy up the mess left by a past relationship and finding the strength to start anew. Leave it to Taylor to turn heartbreak into a triumphant anthem of resilience.
She seemed to really just document every aspect of her various relationships with each of her boyfriends, from beginning to end and even after the end, once she completely moved on.
Jake Gyllenhaal Inspired "I Bet You Think About Me"
You know, sometimes relationships can be as unpredictable as Taylor Swift's breakup anthems. Take her song "I Bet You Think About Me," for example. Rumor has it that this juicy track was inspired by none other than Jake Gyllenhaal, the dreamboat actor. Apparently, he did something to upset Taylor, and instead of licking her wounds in silence, she channeled her emotions into a killer song. Way to turn lemons into chart-topping lemonade, Taylor!
It is a nice way to get revenge on someone at the same time. You can take out your anger in a song that other people can realte to.
"I Think He Knows" Hints at Her Secret Relationship With Joe
You know that giddy feeling when you're into someone, and you're pretty sure they feel the same way? That's the vibe Taylor Swift captures in "I Think He Knows." It's like a butterfly-filled stomach on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. And hey, let's not pretend we didn't enjoy playing detective, picking up on those not-so-subtle hints about her secret relationship with Joe. Taylor, you sly fox, letting the music do the talking.
Everyone can relate to the feeling that Taylor is expressing, but the line “He's so obsessed with me, and boy, I understand” may be a bit too confident for most.
“The Archer” Is About Her Astrological Sign
In "The Archer," Taylor Swift delves into the depths of her astrological sign, Sagittarius. As a true Sagittarian, she explores the highs and lows of her personality traits, diving into the inner complexities that make her who she is. It's like she's saying, "Hey world, I'm an Archer and proud of it!" This song invites everyone to look beyond the surface and embrace the complexity and contradictions that make each and every person unique.
It makes sense that one of her songs would be dedicated to her astrological sign. It is such a popular topic these days it's understandable that at least one song would be made out of it in Taylor's life.
“Marjorie” Is About Her Grandmother
"Marjorie" is a heartfelt tribute to Taylor's late grandmother, Marjorie Finlay. This touching ballad showcases how Marjorie's unwavering encouragement and belief in Taylor inspired her to pursue a career in music. Sadly, Marjorie passed away before witnessing her granddaughter's immense success. Through her lyrics, Taylor immortalizes her beloved grandmother's legacy, ensuring that Marjorie's influence lives on in every note she sings. She dedicated some songs to her mother and others to her grandmother.
It is pretty clear that Taylor is a family person at the end of the day.
Leo DiCaprio Was Targeted in "The Man"
Ah, Leo DiCaprio, the man who's captured hearts on screen for decades. But in Taylor Swift's world, even Leo isn't immune from a little playful ribbing. Enter "The Man," a cheeky track that pokes fun at gender double standards. It's like flipping the script and imagining how life would be if she were the one calling the shots, just like Leo does in his movies. However, it does appear to be a called for "attack."
You can only imagine the smile on Leo's face when he heard his name gracing the lyrics of a Swift song.
"The Last Great American Dynasty": Historical Glam Meets Taylor's Melodic Pen
Prepare yourself for a musical history lesson! "The Last Great American Dynasty" is not just a song; it's a fascinating historical biography in lyrical form. Taylor spins the tale of Rebekah Harkness, an heiress who married an heir, threw epic parties, and inherited an extravagant mansion. It's like stepping into a time machine and going back to the glitz, glamour, and scandal of the past. Move over textbooks, history just got a whole lot more melodious!
It's a pretty interesting story at the end of the day so it makes sense that Taylor would use it as inspiration. After all, that is a great way to come up with thoughts for music.
"Epiphany" Reminds of Taylor's Lucky Number 13 and Her Grandfather
Taylor Swift loves sprinkling personal touches into her songs, like "Epiphany." It's a reminder that Taylor's lucky number is 13 (and her birthday is on December 13th!). It's like a hidden nod to her own life, weaving her personal experiences into her music. Plus, it pays tribute to her grandfather, creating a deep connection with her fans. It's amazing how a simple number can hold so much meaning and so few people can even know about it.
Some of the military references in the song came from her grandfather's time in the military during World War 1. She wanted to give him a little tribute in her music.
"You Need to Calm Down" Shows Taylor's Vibrant Support for the LGBTQ+ Community
Taylor Swift's "You Need to Calm Down" isn't just a bop – it's a bold statement of support for the LGBTQ+ community. It's like a rainbow power anthem, saying, "Hey, love is love, people!" And her whole album, "Lover," follows suit with its inclusive themes. It's heartwarming to see a pop icon using her platform to spread positivity and acceptance. Keep shining that rainbow-colored light, Taylor and show the world what you support.
The album "Lover" also includes a few other references to her support of the LGBTQ+ community, even though they are not so obvious that most people are aware of them.
“Dress” Is About Taking a Love Interest to the Next Level
In this steamy track, Taylor Swift takes us on a seductive journey. "Dress" is all about taking a love interest to the next level. It's that electrifying moment when you're ready to turn up the heat and take things to a whole new level of intimacy. So, if you've ever found yourself in a situation where clothes are flying off the shelves... of course, off the hangers, then you'll appreciate the hidden layers in "Dress."
It's the combination of sizzling romance and passion, who wouldn't appreciate it and want to understand the full meaning and history of this song?
"You Belong With Me" Is When Band Drama Inspires a Smash Hit
Everyone has been there – eavesdropping on intense phone conversations. That's precisely how "You Belong With Me" came to life. Taylor overheard one of her bandmates yelling at his girlfriend, and bam! Inspiration struck. She channeled that relatable experience into an anthem for all the unrequited lovers silently pining for their friends. So, the next time you catch yourself accidentally listening in on a shouting match, remember, you might just contribute to the next chart-topping hit!
They probably never thought that their argument would lead to a popular and hit song. At least it made the argument worth it in the end!
In "Mean" Taylor Takes a Stand Against Critics
Let's face it, Taylor has faced her fair share of critics throughout her career. But instead of letting those haters get under her skin, she fought back with "Mean." This empowering track is like a musical mic drop aimed at all the naysayers who tried to dim her shine. So, haters beware – mess with Taylor Swift, and she'll turn you into the subject of an epic clapback in one of her songs. Talk about sweet revenge!
There is no better way to get revenge against people who think they could get the better of you then to write a song just about them, not in the best way.
Joe Alwyn's Reign Begins in "Cruel Summer"
Ah, Joe Alwyn, the lucky man who captured Taylor's heart. In "Cruel Summer," she commemorates their blossoming relationship and the sweet moments they shared. It's like a playful ode to Joe and the summer fling that evolved into something more. Let's take a moment to appreciate Joe for being the inspiration behind this catchy tune. It must be nice to have a song dedicated to you, right, even if the title is "Cruel Summer?"
It was probably such a cruel summer because she really loved and enjoyed her time with Joe Alwyn, even if it did not end in the best way.
She Relived Childhood Memories in “Christmas Tree Farm”
Ah, the sweet sound of nostalgia. In "Christmas Tree Farm," Taylor takes her listeners back to her childhood and the joyous memories of Christmases past. It's like a magical sleigh ride through her yesteryears, filled with snowball fights, hot cocoa, and the scent of pine. As she serenades us with twinkling melodies, you can't help but remember your own moments of holiday bliss. So grab your stockings, friends, and get ready to jingle all the way down memory lane.
Considering she did grow up on a Christmas tree farm, she wanted to make sure that some of her music represented that as well.
"Our Song" Was Written for Her 9th Grade Talent Show
Before the music industry crowned her as the ultimate superstar, Taylor Swift was just a regular teenager with a big dream. And she channeled that dream into "Our Song," a catchy tune that was actually written for her 9th-grade talent show. It's like a time capsule of her youthful ambition, an anthem that reminds everyone that the journey to success starts with a single spark and that spark might just be the song written for a 9th grade talent show.
It's time to give a standing ovation to that 9th-grade talent show, where Taylor's star was just beginning to shine and where she wrote many songs that started it all.
Taylor's Dating Adventures With Harry Styles in "Out of the Woods"
Break out your compass because you're about to be diving into the dating adventures of Taylor and Harry Styles. "Out of the Woods" chronicles the rollercoaster ride of their relationship. From the exhilarating highs to the tumultuous lows, the song captures the uncertainty and excitement of navigating love's treacherous terrain. If you've ever found yourself in a whirlwind romance with twists and turns, then you'll relate to Taylor's lyrical storytelling.
Every Swiftie knows that Taylor had a tumultuous dating experience with Harry Styles, but did you know that this song commemorates it?
“All Too Well” Is About How Jake Gyllenhall Treated Her
Break out the tissues, everyone, because you're about to dive headfirst into heartbreak territory (as is common for Taylor's songs which all seem to focus on heartbreak one way or another). "All Too Well" showcases Taylor's ability to capture the pain of a broken relationship. While she hasn't confirmed it, fans suspect that this emotional rollercoaster is about her time with Jake Gyllenhaal. With every lyric, Taylor paints a vivid picture of heartache and longing.
It's like she's saying, "You hurt me, Jake, and now the whole world knows." She really decided to let the whole world know.
"Cardigan" From the Folklore Album Unravels a Teenage Love Triangle
Ever been caught in a love triangle? Well, it seems like Taylor Swift definitely has, and "Cardigan" from her Folklore album is the soundtrack to that teenage turmoil. It's like a musical diary entry, unraveling the tangled emotions of young love. We've all had those moments where the heart wants one thing, but reality has other plans. Thank you, Taylor, for perfectly capturing the angst we all felt during those melodramatic years!
Even though Taylor did admit that most of the songs in this album were fictional stories and not based on real life, it's hard to believe that all of it was completely made up.
Continuing the Love Triangle Story in "August"
Ah, love triangles, the stuff of legends and soap operas. Taylor Swift knows a thing or two about those, and she continues the saga with "August." It's like diving into the deep end of heartbreak, where summer flings ignite fiery emotions. We've all felt that bittersweet ache when a love story doesn't quite make it past the sun-soaked days. Thanks, Taylor, for perfectly capturing that wistful longing and reminding us of the tangled web of romance.
That is definitely something that people think of throughout their lives, so it would make sense that Taylor would focus on these themes in her music.
“Shake It Off” Is a Simple and Sweet Message to Ward off Haters
When it comes to dealing with haters and negativity, Taylor Swift has a simple solution: "Shake It Off." This infectious bop serves as a friendly reminder to let go of the negativity and dance your way through life. Taylor's message is clear: haters gonna hate, so why not bust a move and laugh in their faces? So, next time someone tries to bring you down, just shake it off and twirl into a world of positivity.
It makes sense that this is one of Taylor's most popular songs, loved and sung by Swifties but also people all around the world.