Taylor Swift is renowned for her musical shrewdness and pivots, however her shift to pop with her"1989" album "1989" was a major departure from her traditional country.
The transformation was exemplified by the album's best-known song, "Blank Space." In the song, Swift cleverly satirizes her image as being a "maneater," turning the story around by combining wit and humor.
The song provides a hilarious rebuttal to critics about her relationships and songwriting style, but also shifts her of the "girl right next door" image to an edgier pop personality.
"Blank Space" shines as a pivotal illustration of Swift's development and was covered in an episode of the The Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs podcast.
The hosts Rob Sheffield and Brittany Spanos discussed the impact of the song and the role it played in shaping Swift's career.
Alongside them was Brian Hiatt, host of Rolling Stone Music Now, they discussed the dangers involved with Swift's shift from pop to country.
The Rolling Stone 500 Greatest Songs list, which was first introduced in 2004 is a highly dynamic and frequently debated list, derived from votes from artists as well as industry professionals and even critics.
The list in 2021 was given an overhaul that reflected the latest perspectives and diversity in the changing landscape of music.