by Daniel Nkado
We’re all here for Taylor’s return to glam!
Inspired by her Eras Tour success and her blossoming romance with Travis Kelce, Taylor Swift’s 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, feels like Taylor celebrating her fame instead of running from it. Produced by Max Martin and Shellback, the album is a glossy 41-minute ride full of pop sparkle, a little rock flavour, and themes of love, fame, and joy.
It’s fun, catchy, and confident—but not perfect. Let’s talk about what works and what doesn’t.
What Works: Taylor at Her Most Confident
Taylor Swift sounds her best when she’s having fun, and this album reflects that energy. The songs are bright, upbeat, and easy to replay. Critics like Rolling Stone’s Rob Sheffield call it “a return to form,” while The Needle Drop praises its “polished and elegant pop sound.”
This album will appeal to all categories of Swifties— Anti-Heroes, Swift Thinkers, Karma Enthusiasts, Folklore Academics, Midnight Loyalists, and even the quirky Tortured Poets, etc. Many say this era shows Taylor finally owning her fame and happiness. The vibe is empowering—less “running from the spotlight,” more “I belong here.” The songs mix emotional honesty with pure pop joy.
Beyond the music, what really clicks is how The Life of a Showgirl captures Taylor in her power era—unbothered, confident, and clearly having fun. She’s not dodging the spotlight; she’s owning it in heels and sequins. From the sparkly visuals to her cheeky lyrics, this is Taylor celebrating herself and her success with a wink.
Still, even the brightest spotlight can cast a few shadows—and while Showgirl dazzles with confidence, not every track shines as brightly.
What Doesn’t Work: The Glitter Fades in Spots
Still, not every song lands perfectly. Some lyrics feel recycled or shallow compared to her poetic storytelling in Folklore and Evermore. Folklore, to me, remains the peak of Taylor’s songwriting—intimate, poetic, and timeless. The Tortured Poets Department came close, but it didn’t quite reach the same mark.
Pitchfork notes that parts of the “Showgirl” album “lack evolution,” and The Guardian calls it a “shortage of strong hooks.” The song “Wood” has especially drawn laughs for its awkward metaphors. “His love was the key that opened my thighs”…okay, Taylor!
Some fans have noted the album feels a bit rushed or disconnected—like a collection of good singles instead of a full story. A few even feel Taylor is now playing it safe musically. Even Taylor seems aware of the split reactions, telling fans she welcomes the “chaos” that comes with creating art.
Something tells me, though, that this is an album before the Big Album!!!
Best Tracks: The Ones You’ll Replay
My top pick? “Opalite.” It’s a joyful anthem about building your own happiness—perfect pop gold. Critics and fans agree it’s the standout, calling it “catchy” and “uplifting.” Fun fact: Opalite means man-made — Taylor’s metaphor for self-made joy.
“Elizabeth Taylor” also shines, a smooth, romantic song about fame and love that’s impossible to skip. And “Fate of Ophelia”—the album’s lead single—is Taylor at her most radio-ready since 1989.
Other highlights include “Honey,” a sweet, flirty bop that gives vintage Taylor charm. “Ruin the Friendship,” though sad, hits hard emotionally and has been praised for its depth—even if it feels out of place among the glitter.
And what is “Actually Romantic” doing on this album, for goodness’ sake? The only song I skip on this album—it just doesn’t fit the happy, confident vibe of Showgirl. Some fans say it’s bold and classic Taylor: turning drama into music. What do you think—skip or replay?
Folklore remains my winner for Taylor’s true non-skip work.
Ms Sabrina Carpenter!
Sabrina Carpenter’s feature on the title track, The Life of a Showgirl, adds a playful, breathy edge that fits the album’s glitzy mood and helps power its debut at #5 on the Billboard Hot 100. I love the energy and chemistry between the two, but I can see why some listeners call it a little over-the-top or too polished/sterile. It’s a fun, catchy closer that captures the album’s spirit, even if it’s not Taylor at her deepest.
Again, this is a “Showgirl” album, and the motto is “forget depth and dance!”
Final Verdict: Not Perfect, But Still Sparkles
The Life of a Showgirl proves Taylor is still the queen of reinvention. It’s confident, catchy, and full of heart—even while uneven in some places.
It might not be her next 1989 or Folklore or Midnights, but it’s still an album worth celebrating. Think of it as a fun, glitter-filled ride with moments of true brilliance. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a casual listener, there’s something here for you. It’s not perfect, but it’s so fun, I love it!
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
The Life of a Showgirl album
£13.99
