While Taylor Swift’s tracks probably feature on many people’s lists of ‘favourite music,’ have you ever wondered what the Pop Titan herself likes to listen to in the car, at the gym, or running errands? The 35-year-old has often spoken about the songs she loves by other artists, offering fans a glimpse into the music that has inspired her. Over the years, she has shared numerous songs by musicians that have inspired her, comforted her, or simply resonated with her on a personal level, even curating a Spotify playlist titled “Songs Taylor Loves.”
Taylor has always been a champion of female artists and has gone out of her way to support and encourage her fellow musicians. The Shake It Off singer has praised Lana Del Rey in the past, calling her “one of the best musical artists ever” and also referring to her as her favourite lyricist. She has also shown admiration for Def Leppard, The National, beabadoobee, Phoebe Bridgers/boygenius, and HAIM.
1. “You Wanted It” – MoZella
Maureen Anne McDonald, 43, better known as Mozella, is not only an established singer but a lauded songwriter having co-wrote Miley Cyrus’ 2013 single “Wrecking Ball”. Swift discovered this song during a personal moment, stating, “I first heard it in an airport bathroom when I was going through a situation with a guy—I’d thought he was in, but he was just chasing me for the sake of the chase. This song sounds like she can empathise.”
2. “A Little Opera Goes a Long Way” – Sky Sailing
Acoustic, indie pop album An Airplane Carried Me to Bed by Sky Sailing is wildly different from Adam Young’s usual electronic tracks. Reflecting on her early days living alone, Swift said this track was her “theme song for the first few days of living solo,” resonating with its lyrics about embracing solitude.
3. “Until You” – Dave Barnes
Rockstar Dave Barnes gets a special mention in Taylor’s favourite tracks list and was even included in her “Happily Ever” playlist. The star said she selected this song to represent the theme of love, showcasing her appreciation for heartfelt lyrics.
4. “Rain” – Patty Griffin
Known for her stripped-down songwriting style in the folk music genre, 63-year-old Patty Griffin once feared she had lost her voice forever after getting sick. Adding Rain to her “Happily Ever” playlist, Taylor said this song reflects her admiration for evocative songwriting that captures complex emotions.
5. “Easy Silence” – The Chicks
Swift has expressed her fondness for this track, noting its inclusion in her love-themed playlist and her connection to The Chicks as musical influences.
6. “Naked as We Came” – Iron & Wine
Discussing this song, Swift mentioned, “When I listen to ‘Naked as We Came,’ by Iron & Wine, I hang on every word and dissect every metaphor; I’m completely absorbed.”
7. “Anti-Hero” – Taylor Swift
While not by another artist, Swift has cited “Anti-Hero” as one of her personal favourites among her own work, stating, “I really don’t think I’ve delved this far into my insecurities in this detail before.”