The new Taylor Swift album, The Life Of A Showgirl, released on October 3rd, was expected by Swift’s fans to make their Friday; however, Swifties were more disappointed than thrilled over the album. The album falls under the soft rock and pop genres, with a creative cover design. Unlike the cover design, the lyrics were not as creative.
The marketing for Swift’s album was exceptional in raising expectations. Using the idea of a “showgirl” as the most recent album after Swift’s famous world tour was clever for publicity in comparing Swift to a showgirl. I thought her team’s way of promoting the album by adding a few of Swift’s “easter eggs” for her fans in a podcast release was a great marketing strategy. I also liked the music throughout some of the songs and felt like they had a catchy rhythm to them. However, while I thought the promotion of the album was great, the release of the album did not hit the same mark.
In previous albums, Swift had been praised for her creative lyrics and for adding meaning behind her songs with many metaphors. When comparing The Life of A Showgirl to her other most recent album, The Tortured Poets Department, which was considered more poetry than music, I feel strongly disappointed in the more recent album. I think the more music you produce should show your growth and talent in the art, and it looks like Swift has gone more backwards than forwards. Her lyrics were very simple and not very complex. For example, a lyric from the song CANCELLED! off the new album features the lyrics ”did you girl boss to close to the sun,” which has taken much criticism for it’s cringy nature.
Overall, the album is not my favorite, but it is not the worst out there. I would instead recommend a different album of hers to listen to, but if people prefer simple lyrics with a catchy beat, then I might recommend the album. It is not Swift’s biggest hit, but still an impressive achievement in releasing her 12th album.
Brooke Wanamaker • Jan 5, 2026 at 3:04 pm
I completely agree with your take on this album, the lyrics definitely fell short from what she is capable of. I hope you continue to write brutally honest reviews!