Following the global success of her second album, Fearless, a 20-year-old Taylor Swift released Speak Now in 2010 – a record she wrote completely alone after critics had surmised her previous success was thanks to an adult team around her in the studio.
It was a commercial hit, even earning a spot in the 2010 Guinness World Records as the fastest-selling album in the US by a female country artist.
In Australia, the album went double platinum and she played to sold-out arenas across the country on her global tour. As one of the biggest pop stars in the world takes back ownership of her own catalogue following the sale of her masters to US music mogul Scooter Braun, we revisit the scandals and affairs of the era that provided inspiration for the songs.
Innocent
After rapper Kanye West interrupted Swift’s acceptance speech at the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards, she wrote the song ‘Innocent’ as a way of expressing forgiveness. Given everything that has happened since, it’s unlikely she still feels as charitable towards West.
Long Live
Speak Now was Swift’s third record, and while her fanbase was nowhere near as big as it is today, the “Swifties” were amassing. The track ‘Long Live’ was written as a love letter to fans and bandmates, and remains a favourite.
Back to December
Swift’s swipes at exes on her earlier albums are legendary, but rather than exposing Twilight star Taylor Lautner, ‘Back to December’ had a message of apology. The actor said he’s not worried about attracting the same negativity Jake Gyllenhaal received when Red (Taylor’s Version) was released.
Mean
The song ‘Mean’ was written in response to a scathing review by music critic Bob Lefsetz after Swift’s 2010 performance with Stevie Nicks. Lefsetz said Swift “can’t sing” and wouldn’t have a career for long. He’s eating humble pie now.
Dear John
July 7 is set to be one of singer John Mayer’s darker days. (The track ‘Dear John’ calls out his treatment of her when they dated in 2009.) Expect there to be at least one bonus track that further puts Mayer on blast. #prayforjohn
Speak Now (Taylor’s Version) is available to preorder now at taylorswift.com and will be available in store and on streaming services from July 7.
