Speak Now cover

Speak Now

Taylor Swift

Album 2010

About this album

Sound: "A sweeping blend of country and pop, layered with confessional storytelling and rich melodies."

Where they were

By the time 'Speak Now' was released in 2010, Taylor Swift had already gained significant acclaim with her previous albums, including the blockbuster 'Fearless'. This third studio album marked her transition from country star to a mainstream pop icon, showcasing her growth as a songwriter who writes about personal experiences.

Why it matters

'Speak Now' debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and sold over one million copies in its first week, solidifying Swift's status in the music industry. The album's critical reception was overwhelmingly positive, earning multiple Grammy nominations, and it is particularly noted for its intricate lyrical narratives and the absence of co-writers.

Essential tracks

  • "Back to December" — This poignant ballad reflects regret and introspection, showcasing Swift's evolution as a storyteller by weaving personal emotion into her lyrics.
  • "Dear John" — 'Dear John' stands out for its raw emotional honesty, detailing a tumultuous relationship that garnered significant media attention and discourse around Swift's personal life.
  • "Mean" — With its anthemic chorus and empowering message against bullying, 'Mean' resonated widely, earning a Grammy for Best Country Solo Performance.
  • "Enchanted" — 'Enchanted' captivates listeners with its fairy-tale-like narrative and lush instrumentation, representing Swift's ability to evoke deep emotions through storytelling.

Release Date

October 25, 2010

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Mine 3:51
  2. 2 Sparks Fly 4:22
  3. 3 Back to December 4:55
  4. 4 Speak Now 4:03
  5. 5 Dear John 6:45
  6. 6 Mean 3:58
  7. 7 The Story of Us 4:27
  8. 8 Never Grow Up 4:52
  9. 9 Enchanted 5:53
  10. 10 Better Than Revenge 3:40
  11. 11 Innocent 5:03
  12. 12 Haunted 4:05
  13. 13 Last Kiss 6:09
  14. 14 Long Live 5:17