Taylor Swift’s 12th album, The Life of a Showgirl, dropped on October 3, 2025 after months of anticipation. Swift has done it again. Social media is overflowing with thousands of takes; from people praising to giving criticism. Many are arguing which previous album her new songs are most similar to, and the truth is, Taylor Swift can echo similar vibes from previous albums, but each new song will always bring its unique vibe and energy, ushering a fresh era.

Everyone’s already debating their own rankings, so I had to make mine as well. These are my first-listen impressions: the songs that immediately hooked me and the ones that I think will grow on me and haven’t hit (yet).

Let’s get into it…
The Fate of Ophelia – In my opinion, this is the most original song on the album, and gives a new melody to sing in the shower, blast in the car, and dance with your friends. The song has a catchy chorus and sounds like peak Taylor Swift while still introducing fresh production.

Opalite – I can tell how much thought is put into this song. Her writing for these lyrics make this song instantly replayable. This is the kind of song that will remain instantly replaying in your head for days.

Father figure – In the Amazon Music Track by Track version of The Life of a Showgirl, Swift shares that the lyrics are some of her favorites and how she’s always wanted to come out with a song like this. I agree. The lyrics make the song better.

Eldest Daughter – Unlike some of the other upbeat songs in this album, this is slower and reflective, with emotional vocals and lyrics that reminisce on past days. A line in the bridge “’Cause I thought that I’d never find that beautiful, beautiful life that shimmers that innocent light back like when we were young,” perfectly captures the feeling of nostalgia which is why the song is so heartfelt and relatable.

CANCELLED! – This may or may not be the most controversial song in this album, and I’m here for it. It is very similar to something that you would find in the Reputation album but still has an original edgy vibe.

The Life of a Showgirl – The storytelling in this song is what truly makes it. When she connected the end of the eras tour in the end of the song, I felt it was the perfect touch.

Ruin the friendship – I didn’t expect such a sad song coming from this album, but I really like it. The song has elements that remind me of her previous album Red.

Actually Romantic – This song has brought controversy upon fans because they speculate it’s about drama between Taylor and Charli XCX, and I’m here for it. The actual song is great and the fact that it’s causing celeb-drama makes it even better. It’s petty, fun, and brilliant.

Wood – This song isn’t particularly appropriate to talk about in school, but the message of this song is definitely bold and makes you stop and listen. I’ll let you listen for yourself to see what it’s about.

Elizabeth Taylor – Not my favorite. The lyrics are pretty good and it’s catchy enough to the point where if it was played in the car, I wouldn’t skip it.

Honey – Swift explained “‘Honey’ is a song about how words that have been meant to hurt you in the past can be repurposed by someone who loves you in a way that feels totally different” in her Amazon Music breakdown.

Wi$h Li$t – Although I’ve never seen a song with a name like this, it seems very similar to some of her past songs. There is nothing wrong with the song, I just think it’s nothing new.