From Teardrops to Tortured Poets, Every Taylor Swift Album Ranked

From Teardrops to Tortured Poets, Every Taylor Swift Album Ranked

Taylor Swift has given us a soundtrack for nearly two decades — from the twangy innocence of Teardrops on My Guitar to the literary depth of The Tortured Poets Department. Across 11 studio albums, she’s reinvented herself again and again, blending country, pop, indie-folk, and everything in between. Now, with the release of her brand-new record The Life of a Showgirl, Swift is already stepping into yet another era.

Because this latest chapter has only just begun, it’s too early to place The Life of a Showgirl alongside her established classics — its legacy is still being written. What we can do, though, is revisit the journey so far and rank every Taylor Swift album that has shaped her career up to The Tortured Poets Department.

11. Reputation (2017)

Reputation, released in 2017, marks a departure into a darker, more experimental era for Taylor Swift. Known for its defensive and rebellious tones, the album features massive hits like “Delicate” and “Look What You Made Me Do.” However, as a full-length album, it presents an uneven mix that polarized both fans and critics.

Despite its initial reception, Reputation has aged with unexpected grace, though it remains the lowest-ranked on this list. Its exploration of fame and persona feels timely, offering a glimpse into Swift’s complex relationship with the public eye.

10. Lover (2019)

With Lover, Taylor Swift embraced a bright and colorful pop aesthetic in 2019, offering fans gems like “Cruel Summer.” Despite its vibrant optimism, the album’s flow feels inconsistent, partly overshadowed by the onset of the global pandemic. This era remains a fan favorite, celebrated for its romantic themes and catchy melodies.

However, it doesn’t quite reach the artistic heights of her strongest works. Lover captures a moment of joy and vulnerability, showcasing Swift’s ability to weave personal narratives into universally relatable anthems.

9. Taylor Swift (Debut) (2006)

Taylor Swift’s self-titled debut in 2006 introduced her as a promising young talent in country music. At just 16, she showcased her songwriting prowess through hits like “Tim McGraw” and “Our Song.” This nostalgic album offers a glimpse into her early artistic identity, marked by heartfelt storytelling and relatable themes.

While it set the stage for her future success, it lacks the fully-realized complexity of her later work. The debut remains a cherished piece of her discography, beloved for its innocence and authenticity.

8. Midnights (2022)

Midnights, a sleek and synth-driven pop album released in 2022, solidified Taylor Swift’s status as a commercial powerhouse. The album’s lead single, “Anti-Hero,” became a massive hit, though some critics argue the tracklist plays it safe compared to her more daring projects.

Despite this, Midnights offers a strong collection of songs that highlight Swift’s knack for blending catchy hooks with introspective lyrics. It’s a testament to her enduring appeal and ability to captivate listeners across genres.

7. Fearless (Taylor’s Version) (2021)

Fearless (Taylor’s Version), re-released in 2021, revisits her breakout 2008 album, filled with country-pop classics like “Love Story.” Winning the Grammy for Album of the Year, it cemented Swift’s status as a music powerhouse.

While its timeless appeal resonates with fans, subsequent albums showcase more artistic depth. The re-recording underscores Swift’s commitment to owning her music, infusing each track with matured vocals and added emotional resonance. Fearless remains a pivotal point in her career, capturing the essence of youthful dreams and heartaches.

6. Speak Now (Taylor’s Version) (2023)

Speak Now (Taylor’s Version), released in 2023, revisits an album entirely self-written by Swift at age 20. With epic tracks like “Enchanted” and “Dear John,” it displays her extraordinary songwriting talent.

The addition of vault tracks enriches this already impressive collection, though it remains just shy of her top-tier works. Speak Now captures a heartfelt narrative, showcasing Swift’s introspective and expressive voice. It’s a testament to her growth as an artist, offering listeners a glimpse into her creative journey.

5. Evermore (2020)

Evermore, released in 2020, serves as the quieter sister to Folklore, delivering introspective and understated beauty. Its autumnal themes and reflective lyrics create a serene listening experience, led by standout tracks like “Champagne Problems.” Among her best storytelling songs, Evermore offers a nuanced portrayal of emotion and narrative.

This album shows Swift’s ability to craft compelling stories within a musical landscape, providing listeners with a sense of warmth and introspection. It’s a celebration of her artistic maturity and innovation.

4. The Tortured Poets Department (2024)

The Tortured Poets Department, set for release in 2024, is an ambitious double album that showcases Taylor Swift’s bold experimentation and literary lyrics. Its vulnerable and deeply dissected content has already achieved iconic status.

Though slightly polarizing, this album is undeniably important in her discography. The Tortured Poets Department reflects Swift’s evolution as an artist unafraid to explore new territories and challenge her audience with profound themes. It’s a testament to her creative fearlessness and enduring influence.

3. 1989 (Taylor’s Version) (2023)

1989 (Taylor’s Version), reimagined in 2023, celebrates Taylor Swift’s pure pop reinvention with hits like “Style” and “Blank Space.” Originally released in 2014, it won Album of the Year, cementing her place in the pop world.

This flawless mainstream pop record captures the essence of the 80s with a modern twist, offering infectious melodies and polished production. 1989 is a pivotal moment in Swift’s career, showcasing her versatility and ability to reinvent her sound while maintaining her signature storytelling charm.

2. Red (Taylor’s Version) (2021)

Red (Taylor’s Version), released in 2021, is a sprawling masterpiece that perfectly balances country, pop, and heartbreak storytelling. The 10-minute version of “All Too Well” became a cultural phenomenon, exemplifying her storytelling prowess.

This album captures the complexities of love and loss, offering listeners a deeply emotional journey. It stands as one of Swift’s most ambitious projects, showcasing her ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate universally. Red is an enduring testament to her artistic vision and emotional depth.

1. Folklore (2020)

Folklore, released in 2020, is Taylor Swift’s most critically acclaimed record, marking her indie-folk reinvention. Collaborating with The National’s Aaron Dessner and Jack Antonoff, the album features timeless and intimate storytelling. It won the Grammy for Album of the Year, praised for its introspective narratives and understated production.

Folklore offers a serene escape into a world of vivid imagery and emotional depth, showcasing Swift’s unparalleled songwriting ability. This album stands as a testament to her evolution and enduring impact on the music industry.