Anna's Music World

One Direction: Up All Night (2011) Song Ranking

Rating: 7/10

One Direction’s debut album, Up All Night, while very bubblegum-pop and somewhat generic, has many iconic and enjoyable songs. I guess I’m a little biased because I love the boys as people, so of course I’m gonna like their music. For anyone new to the band, I don’t recommend this album as the first one to listen to unless you’re ready to commit, because the boys weren’t allowed to have any involvement in the writing and development of this album, and their later albums are much more representative of their talent as artists.

In this post I’ll be ranking all the songs on One Direction’s first studio album, Up All Night, from worst to best. I don’t normally include deluxe tracks in these reviews, but I feel like all the One Direction songs, deluxe or not, are so important within the fan base that it would be wrong to overlook them (and there are some real gems within the deluxe tracks).

18. Na Na Na (Track 17)

I mean, the chorus is “We’re like na na na, then we’re like yeah yeah yeah.” I don’t know what else to say. If I’m honest, it’s pretty enjoyable to listen to, but the lyrics are so terrible that I have to put it last.

17. Stole My Heart (Track 13)

Very generic and forgettable. It’s not awful, just utterly plain and neutral.

16. Another World (Track 16)

I had hopes for this song because the first few seconds are kinda cool, but I don’t like it. It’s so poppy and technical, and it just feels like any other song that would’ve been on the radio at the time.

15. I Should Have Kissed You (Track 18)

I understand why most of the bonus tracks are bonus tracks. They really don’t showcase the talent of the boys, and they don’t exude the same warmth and happiness that the original songs do. This song isn’t terrible, as far as bubblegum pop goes, but it’s definitely not going in my One Direction playlist.

14. Up All Night (Track 5)

This song is pretty beloved by fans, so I feel bad for ranking it this low, but I can’t change how I feel. The lyrics are nothing special, and the theme is pretty similar to any radio song (let’s have fun and party). The Katy Perry reference makes me cringe every time. On the more positive side, their voices harmonize really nicely when they sing, “Hold onto the feeling and don’t let it go.”

13. Tell Me a Lie (Track 7)

This song is kinda catchy, and I don’t mind listening to it within the album, but it doesn’t have much replay-value for me.

12. Everything About You (Track 10)

The chorus of this song is pretty fun to sing, so it gets some credit for that, but the lyrics are pretty bleh.

11. Save You Tonight (Track 12)

I don’t really like any part of this song, except for the pre-chorus. Harry really serves there. Like, his voice sounds really good. And the lyric changes that he does live for that part are hilarious. This would be much lower, but thanks to Harry, it gets the 11th spot.

10. I Wish (Track 6)

This song, while nothing too amazing, is a pleasant listen. There’s nothing about it that I really dislike, but it’s just a little flavorless. The chorus is kinda cool though.

9. Stand Up (Track 14)

If the chorus was a little less basic, I would really like this song. The verses are pretty cool, but the chorus does nothing for me.

8. More Than This (Track 4)

This is actually a really nice song. The production is much more delicate and soft, and the chorus is pretty sweet. Lyrically, it’s not a gem, but the sonically, it’s pretty good.

7. Moments (Track 15)

Lyrically, this is one of the best songs on the album (it was written by Ed Sheeran, so that makes sense). Moments is pretty beloved among fans, and I can see why. It doesn’t really strike an emotional chord with me, but I can totally imagine that it would for other people. Louis’ solo is great. “You know I’ll be your life, your voice, your reason to be. My love, my heart, is breathing for this moment in time. I’ll find the words to say before you leave me today.”

6. Gotta Be You (Track 2)

This song is a classic, and the high notes are pretty majestic. I also like the strings, because even though they’re kinda cheesy, they add a sentimental quality to the song, which makes it feel more meaningful. All the boys sound really good in this song, so even if it’s not one of my all time favorites from the band, it gets a thumbs up from me.

5. Taken (Track 8)

Here’s where we start getting into my favorite songs from the album. Let me just start by saying that Harry sounds fantastic in this song. Like, dang. I heard this song before I fully listened to the album and I liked it well enough, so I guess I’m a little biased towards it, but whatever. This is my review and I’m allowed to be biased. This song’s bridge is really good. “You only love to see me breakin’, you only want me ’cause I’m taken. You don’t really want my heart, you just like to know you can still be the one who gets it breakin’. You only want me when I’m taken.”

4. I Want (Track 9)

This is one of the most unique songs on the album, because it doesn’t feel like bubblegum pop. It has a lot more attitude and sass than most of the songs on Up All Night. I dare you not to move around listening to this song. It’s very catchy, and the prominent piano line helps it stand out amongst the other tracks. The lyrics are also really fun.

3. Same Mistakes (Track 11)

This song slaps. It’s so sonically pleasing, and the chorus is really beautiful. Plus, the lyrics deal with a topic that isn’t mentioned much in this album: you’re in a relationship with someone, and you know that you won’t break up, so you just make the same mistakes over and over again, not even really trying to work on the relationship. This is a great song, and it’s a major improvement from a lot of the other songs on this album.

2. What Makes You Beautiful (Track 1)

This honestly isn’t even the second best song on the album, but it’s so iconic and nostalgic that I can’t put it any lower. This song kickstarted their careers, and if there’s any One Direction song that you’ll recognize, it’s this one. I mean, it’s a bop, and the music video is legendary. The thing is, this is a typical pop song, but it’s pop gold. As far as radio pop goes (I don’t mean to be bashing it so much, it’s just not generally my type of music) it doesn’t get much better than What Makes You Beautiful. Also, if you’re younger than 25 years old and you don’t know all the lyrics to this song, I don’t trust you.

1. One Thing (Track 3)

Iconic. Amazing. Spectacular. This song could cure my depression (if I had depression). Like, I don’t know what it is about this song, but I just love it so much. I guess it just has that one thing, and I need that one thing (I’m so sorry, that was awful). But like, the boys all sound so good here, the guitar is so fun and pleasant, and the music video makes me want to cry (in a cool way. If you understand that reference, I appreciate you). If there’s one song on this album to give you a gauge of how good their songs can be, this is it. I feel like whether you’re into pop music or not, you have to admit that this is a banger.

Harry Styles (2017) Songs Ranked

Rating: 9.5/10

Harry Styles’ self-titled, solo-debut album was a very drastic change from what he had been making in One Direction. You can tell that he was heavily influenced by classic artists such as David Bowie, Freddie Mercury, and Pink Floyd while creating this record, and he managed to create a sound that was unlike anything else on the mainstream radio at the time. I really admire him for creating the album that he wanted to make, rather than making a radio album. Thematically, this album really touches on themes of lack of communication and longing for something or someone that’s no longer there.

Personally, I adore this album. I love all the songs, and I think Harry did an amazing job with this debut. So just know that while I do have to put a song at the bottom, that doesn’t mean I don’t love it.

10. Sweet Creature (Track 5)

“And oh, we started, two hearts in one home. It’s hard when we argue, we’re both stubborn, I know.” It actually brings me pain to rank this so low, because it’s such a sweet and gentle song, and you can tell it means a lot to Harry. It’s just a tad boring though. On the more positive side, the lyrics are touching, and the guitar is pleasant. I love the way Harry sings in that part towards the end, where it’s all echoey and faded, and he’s just singing “ohhh”. That was an awful way to describe it, but hopefully the readers who have heard the song know what I’m referring to. Once again, I’d like to publicly apologize for where I have ranked this song.

9. Kiwi (Track 7)

I hate ranking this so low, because it’s always a blast to listen to, and Harry gets so wild when he’s performing it. It’s great to head-bang to. I guess I have it on the lower end of this ranking because it’s so fun to listen to when you’re in the right mood, but otherwise it’s a little unsuitable.

8. Woman (Track 9)

I was originally going to have this as my least favorite, but I just love the pre-chorus and the “lalalalas” too much. Really, I love everything about this song, except for the chorus, which is too repetitive for my taste. I don’t mind a repetitive chorus (I’ll be talking about that more later), but I do if it’s only one word that’s being repeated. Harry’s voice is great here.

7. From the Dining Table (Track 10)

We’ve now reached my favorites from the album. I just want to say that I appreciate how the opener and closer for this album both reference places within a house. I love this song because of how personal and intimate it feels. Harry’s voice is very calm and withdrawn, and the lyrics are quite honest (especially one in particular. People who have heard this song, I hope you know which one I’m referring to). Additionally, I just love how raw it is sonically. You can hear the mini-squeaks as the guitar chords change, and it sounds like a live performance. I also love how the music swells into a crescendo at the end, where it’s saying “Maybe one day you’ll call me and tell me that you’re sorry too” as if the song itself is getting optimistic, and then it goes quiet again at the “But you, you never do”. That’s some real artistry.

6. Meet Me In the Hallway (Track 1)

Meet Me In the Hallway, while very mellow and dreary, is a great opener. It introduces the sound of the album and sets up the prevalent lyrical themes of pining and lack of communication. It’s a very reserved and docile song, but very pleasant to listen to. For fans of indie music, this will probably be your favorite from the album. I love Harry’s passionate voice in this song.

5. Only Angel (Track 6)

Again, I wish I could rank this higher, because it’s so fun, the beginning is beautifully angelic and surreal, and I love how classic rock-inspired it is (it sounds like something from the Rolling Stones or Led Zeppelin). This and Kiwi are the two most dad-rock inspired songs on Harry Styles, but I think I prefer this one. I don’t know why, I guess it just resonates better with me. This is an incredible song, and you feel powerful and mysterious just by listening to it.

4. Carolina (Track 3)

This song is so groovy (don’t make fun of me for saying that please) and catchy, and Harry’s voice sounds great. This song sees Harry going crazy for a girl with a lot of personality and charm, and the fun little tidbits he leaves about her are a lot of fun, and add an interesting lyrical quality to the song. This is a very late 60s/early 70s sounding song, and I’m totally here for it. “She’s got a book for every situation. Gets into parties without invitations. How could you ever turn her down? There’s not a drink that I think could sink her. How would I tell her that she’s all I think about? Well, I guess she just found out.”

3. Sign of the Times (Track 2)

This song is honestly legendary. Like, I can’t sing its praises enough. In terms of debut singles, I think this is genuinely one of the best ones of all time. Sign of the Times is a 6-minute, soaring ballad, drawing large inspiration from David Bowie. Harry’s voice is at it’s most impressive, and his songwriting is astounding as well. The sheer craftsmanship of this song is wonderful, from the falsetto pre-chorus, to the impassioned bridge and outro. The bridge is my favorite part of this song, because Harry’s voice is incredible, and the really hard-hitting lyrics about lost communication start to become really prevalent (“We don’t talk enough, we should open up before it’s all too much. Will we ever learn? We’ve been here before. It’s just what we know”). Objectively, this is without a doubt the best song on the album (maybe in Harry’s entire discography thus far), but there’s just one song that beats it in my mind.

2. Two Ghosts (Track 4)

“Same lips red, same eyes blue. Same white shirt, couple more tattoos. But it’s not you, and it’s not me. Tastes so sweet, looks so real, sounds like something that I used to feel, but I can’t touch what I see.” Lyrically, I think this is my favorite song from Harry Styles. Most people think it’s about Taylor Swift (I don’t want to make Harry’s love life the focal point of this review, but I’m a huge Taylor fan, so it is noteworthy to me), which is interesting, because I think it’s very similar to her lyrical style. It has a lot of her trademarks. Country influence and twang, as well as descriptive lyrics that reference specific events from the relationship (“The fridge light washes this room white, moon dances over your good side. This was all we used to need” — which is an amazing lyric, by the way). This song describes two people who have changed so much within their relationship that they’re just ghosts of who they used to be, and the relationship feels practically void from how it started. They still care about each other, but they’ve lost the spark. It’s a beautiful and very real topic, and Harry sings it with lots of emotion and vulnerability. I also love the guitar in this song so much. This is a song that I will never skip when listening to the album, because the more I hear it, the more I love it. “We’re not who we used to be, we’re not who used to be. We’re just two ghosts standing in the place of you and me. We’re not who we used to be, we’re not who we used to be. We’re just two ghosts swimming in a glass half empty, trying to remember how it feels to have a heartbeat.”

1. Ever Since New York (Track 8)

I love this song so so so much, I think it may be unhealthy. Sonically, it’s one of the most gorgeous songs I’ve heard in a while. And the atmosphere that this song provides is very unique from any other song on this album. From the heavy percussion and the graceful guitar, to the richly harmonic chorus, it’s all perfect. And speaking of the chorus, I know I said in relation to Woman that I typically don’t like repetitive choruses, but I think when they’re done right, they can be amazing, and Ever Since New York does the repetitive chorus very right. The phrase that was chosen (“Oh, tell me something I don’t already know”) is poignant enough to pack an emotional punch, but vague enough that it’s open for interpretation. Plus, it’s beautifully sung, with glowing harmonies. This isn’t the most lyrically advanced song on the album by any means, but I’m very much of the belief that lyrics don’t have to be clever and witty to be touching and good. You can tell that the topic of the song really resonates with Harry, and he doesn’t go overboard with trying to show it. “Brooklyn saw me empty at the news. There’s no water inside this swimming pool. Almost over, had enough from you. I’ve been praying, I never did before. Understand I’m talking to the walls. I’ve been praying ever since New York.”

February 2020: Music Recap

February has been a good month for my musical discoveries because I managed to not overplay all of the songs that I’m about to list, so I know that I’ll continue to like them for months to come. Also, just a warning, I got really into One Direction/Harry Styles this month, so I’m gonna try to cut down the amount of their songs that I list, but there were a lot.

1. Dealin’ With the Devil – Looking Glass

Looking Glass wrote one of my favorite songs of all time, Brandy You’re a Fine Girl, so I decided to look into a few of their other songs and I discovered this one. It’s just so sonically fun to listen to, and I love the vocal hooks.

2. All By Myself – Eric Carmen

A classic emo/crying song. My Valentine’s Day anthem.

3. Ever Since New York – Harry Styles

4. Night Changes – One Direction

5. Dancing In the Moonlight – King Harvest

6. You’re All I Need to Get By – Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell

7. Adore You – Harry Styles

This song is honestly so good. Like, it manages to be very funky and retro, while still being suited for today’s radio.

8. Old Time Rock and Roll – Bob Seger

My brother and I were watching a Hunger Games movie marathon on TV, and there was this one commercial that kept playing with this song, so I was inspired to relisten to it, and I rocked out.

9. FourFiveSeconds – Rihanna, Kanye West, and Paul McCartney

I also adore the One Direction cover, so I’ll put that as well. Harry’s solo hits different.

10. Settle Down – The 1975

11. Use Somebody – Kings of Leon

I like the One Direction cover of this one as well.

12. Breakeven – The Script

This is a major throwback song, and I rediscovered it this month.

And now for a message to end this post on: Stream Falling by Harry Styles, and watch the music video because it’s very beautiful.

Top 20 Taylor Swift Songs

I’m a massive Taylor Swift fan, if you can’t tell by the fact that I’ve reviewed all of her albums with what I think is palpable affection. Now that I’ve reviewed her entire discography, I’m ready to post my ranking of my absolute favorite songs from her. If you want more in-depth reviews of these songs, you can check out my album reviews for Taylor Swift.

Keep in mind that these are just my personal opinions, and you’re allowed to disagree with me. I also won’t be including the deluxe tracks, because I was thinking that I might make a separate post for that. And lastly, I wanted to address that the ranking here may be inconsistent with how I ranked the songs in the individual album reviews. That’s because, for one, my opinions have changed a bit since I wrote those reviews, and in those reviews, I determined my rankings partially by how objectively good they were, while this ranking is purely subjective. Without further ado, let us begin the listing!

HONORABLE MENTIONS IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER: The Story of Us, A Place In This World, State of Grace, Hey Stephen, Getaway Car, Tim McGraw, We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together, and Blank Space.

20. Mary’s Song (Oh My My My) – Taylor Swift

This song gets me emotional because it describes the kind of love story that I feel like everyone secretly wishes they could have. It’s just an incredibly sweet song, and I really love it. Plus, I read that Taylor wrote it about her elderly neighbors’ love story, which just makes it even more touching to me. “Take me back to the creek beds we turned up. 2 A.M. riding in your truck, and all I need is you next to me. Take me back to the time we had our very first fight, the slamming of doors instead of kissing goodnight. You stayed outside till the morning light, oh my my my my.”

19. Tied Together With a Smile – Taylor Swift

I guess this song has really stuck with me for the beautiful vocals and imagery in the verses and chorus. “I guess it’s true that love was all you wanted, ’cause you’re giving it away like it’s extra change. Hoping it will end up in his pocket, but he leaves you out like a penny in the rain ’cause it’s not his price to pay.”

18. August – Folklore

This song has such a magical and comforting yet bittersweet feeling to it. Every time I listen to it it just puts me in this zone and tells me this story that sweeps me away. The production and the lyrics and everything about this song is just wonderful. “But I can see us lost in the memory, August slipped away into a moment in time, ’cause you were never mine. And I can see us twisted in bed sheets, August sipped away like a bottle of wine, ’cause you were never mine.”

17. Fifteen – Fearless

This is a song that I’m going to listen to a lot whenever I’m entering a new environment. High school or not, the themes of this song are timeless and inspiring. “Back then I swore I was gonna marry him someday, but I realized some bigger dreams of mine.”

16. Out of the Woods – 1989

This song is really catchy and nice to listen to. And not to be that person, but in the wake of my newfound love for Harry Styles (who this song is universally accepted to be about) my appreciation for this song has grown immensely. The lyricism is just really clever (mainly in the verses, as the chorus is very repetitive although I think that was a good decision as it really conveys the feelings of nervousness and urgency that were present in the relationship) and interesting to analyze. “Looking at it now, last December we were built to fall apart then fall back together. Your necklace hanging from my neck, the night we couldn’t quite forget, when we decided (we decided) to move the furniture so we could dance, baby like we stood a chance. Two paper airplanes flying, flying, flying.”

15. The Last Time – Red

I know this song isn’t everybody’s cup of tea, but I really like it. Maybe it’s just how emotional it is, while still being graceful. Plus, it reminds me of Rory and Jess from Gilmore Girls (a lot of Taylor’s songs do that though). “You find yourself at my door, just like all those times before. You wear your best apology, but I was there to watch you leave. And all the times I let you in, just for you to go again, disappear when you come back. Everything is better.”

14. Forever and Always – Fearless

This is a somewhat depressing bop, and I love it for that. It’s so fun to sing along to, and it makes me mad at the nonexistent boy who has wronged me. “Oh, I stare at the phone, he still hasn’t called. And then you feel so low you can’t feel nothing at all, and you flashback to when we said ‘forever and always’.”

13. Cruel Summer – Lover

I would be lying if I said that, for me personally, Taylor’s past two albums have been as filled with standout tracks as her earlier albums are. However, this song is a true exception. I knew as soon first verse was over that this was going to be my favorite song off Lover, and I’ve only fallen more in love with it since then. I talked about it in my Lover review, but just to summarize, this song is so summery and wonderful, and it paints such a cinematic vision in your mind as you listen to it. Like, I could see books and movies being created just off of this song’s premise alone. “Fever dream high in the quiet of the night, you know that I caught it. Bad bad boy, shiny toy with a price, you know that I bought it. Killing me slow, out the window, I’m always waiting for you to be waiting below. Devils roll the dice, angels roll their eyes, what doesn’t kill me makes me want you more.”

12. Untouchable – Fearless Platinum Edition

Okay, I know I said I wasn’t gonna have any deluxe tracks on this list but this is the one I’ll make an exception for. This song is incredible. The lyrics are so poetic but still relatable, Taylor’s voice is beautiful but haunting, and the instrumental just sounds like a starry night. “Untouchable, burning brighter than the Sun. And now that you’re close I feel like coming undone. In the middle of the night, when I’m in this dream, it’s like a million little stars spelling out your name.”

11. Treacherous – Red

I don’t know exactly when or why, but recently my love and adoration of this song has spiked. It has such a beautiful lyrical premise, Taylor’s voice is so delicate and withdrawn, and then as soon as the build up comes crashing down and the song ramps up, she adds so much power to her vocals and it’s just majestic. This is a magnificent song, and it’s the song that I always think of when I think of Red’s sonic direction. “I can’t decide if it’s a choice getting swept away. I hear the sound of my own voice asking you to stay.”

10. Sad Beautiful Tragic – Red

Ahhhhh, we’ve reached my ten favorite Taylor Swift songs of all time! This song is so hauntingly beautiful, and just… atmospheric. It’s like all you can do while hearing this song is just stop what you’re doing and listen. I really recommend this song if you’re just looking for some truly gorgeous music and vocals. It’s folk-inspired, and I think Taylor pulls that sound off really really well. “In dreams, I meet you in warm conversation. We both wake in lonely beds, in different cities. And time is taking it’s sweet time erasing you. And you’ve got your demons, and darling, they all look like me.”

9. Dear John – Speak Now

When I think of a Taylor Swift breakup song, I don’t think of the upbeat goodbye anthems she’s written. I think of the truly scorching and heartbroken epics that she’s penned only a few times in her whole career. This song is one of them. Dear John sees Taylor at her most regretful and angry and disappointed. “Well maybe it’s me and my blind optimism to blame. Or maybe it’s you and your sick need to give love and take it away. And you’ll add my name to your long list of traitors who don’t understand, and I’ll look back and regret how I ignored when they said run as fast as you can.”

8. The Way I Loved You – Fearless

I don’t really know why, but this song just does something else to me. It was one of the first Taylor Swift songs that I truly fell in love with, and I adore the premise of the song. Taylor’s vocals are great, and I really like the sonic differences between the verses and the chorus to represent the differences between the two relationships. “He’s close to my mother, talks business with my father. He’s charming and endearing and I’m comfortable, but I miss screaming and fighting and kissing in the rain. It’s 2 A.M. and I’m cursing your name. So in love that you act insane, and that’s the way I loved you.”

7. Wildest Dreams – 1989

Back when 1989 first came out, this was my favorite song, and I still love it just as much. The song is so dreamy and ethereal and beautiful. For real, it’s absolutely stunning. I honestly can’t praise this song enough. I feel blessed that it exists. “Say you’ll remember me, standing in a nice dress, staring at the sunset, babe. Red lips and rosy cheeks, say you’ll see me again, even if it’s just in your wildest dreams.”

6. Everything Has Changed – Red

I’ve loved this song forever, and I still love it with all my heart. It just makes me feel so happy and nostalgic and warm. If you’re looking for an instant pick-me-up song, this is it. It also reminds me of fall (all of Red has a very autumnal vibe to it, wouldn’t you say?). “All I know is pouring rain, and everything has changed. All I know is a newfound grace, all my days, I’ll know your face. All I know since yesterday is everything has changed.”

5. Teardrops On My Guitar – Taylor Swift

And we’ve reached the top 5. I just want to say straight off the bat, that all of these songs are ones that I couldn’t love any more than I do now. They’re all some of my favorite songs of all time, and it physically hurts me that I can’t put them all in the number one spot. This song captures so well the feeling of being hopelessly in love with someone who doesn’t have eyes for you, and just accepting your fate of never being loved by them in return. I used to have it higher, but I don’t relate to it as much as I did at the time I originally wrote this list, so I’ve actually bumped it down a couple spots. I adore this song, and I don’t really know what else to say. “So I drive home alone, as I turn off the light, I’ll put his picture down and maybe get some sleep tonight. ‘Cause he’s the reason for the teardrops on my guitar, the only one who’s got enough of me to break my heart. He’s the song in the car I keep singing, don’t know why I do. He’s the time taken up, but there’s never enough, and he’s all that I need to fall into. Drew looks at me, I fake a smile so he won’t see.”

4. I Knew You Were Trouble – Red

I guess this song just has a special place in my heart because it was one of the first Taylor Swift songs that I remember hearing a lot. I really love Taylor’s voice in this song, and I like the guitar in the beginning. I’m not really into dubstep music, but I love Taylor’s foray into it here. This song just means a lot to me because it kind of kicked off the phase I had a few years back where I really got into Taylor’s music for good. Without this song, I wouldn’t be the Taylor Swift fan that I am today. Listen to this song if you’re looking for a fun time and some serious nostalgia. I think that I’m underselling my adoration for this song, so let me just make it clear that I adore this song with all my heart and soul. I wouldn’t have it in the top 5 for nothing. “No apologies, he’ll never see you cry. Pretend he doesn’t know that he’s the reason why you’re drowning, you’re drowning, you’re drowning. And I heard you moved on from whispers on the street. A new notch in your belt is all I’ll ever be, and now I see, now I see, now I see. He was long gone when he met me, and I realize the joke is on me…”

3. Style – 1989

Style is without a doubt Taylor’s pop masterpiece song. It’s so funky and synthy, and so reminiscent of the best music the 80s had to offer. And like I said with Out Of The Woods, the fact that it’s about Harry Styles (or universally accepted to be, even if it hasn’t been officially confirmed) just makes me love it more, because it doesn’t paint him or the relationship in a negative light. I love every little thing about this song, and I would argue that it’s one of the best songs of the 10s. “Midnight, you come and pick me up, no headlights. Long drive, could end in burning flames or paradise. Fade into view, oh, it’s been a while since I have even heard from you (heard from you). And I should just tell you to leave ’cause I know exactly where it leads, but I watch us go ’round and ’round each time.”

2. You Belong With Me – Fearless

This is without a doubt one of the most, if not the most, quintessential Taylor songs. This song has transcended it’s former status as a typical crush-song to become one of the most beloved songs of our century thus far. I think I worded it best in my Fearless review, but the love I have for this song cannot be overstated. This song just means so much to me and I’ll never be able to articulate it quite well enough. It’s so effortlessly relatable and wonderful. I think the way it differs from my other favorite unrequited love song from Taylor, Teardrops On My Guitar, is that in Teardrops On My Guitar, Taylor is sitting back and trying to let go of the person, accepting that it’s just not going to happen. In You Belong With Me, she’s trying to tell the person how she feels, and she’s putting up a fight to make him see her. Because of that, I prefer this song, and I find it more inspiring. Plus, it’s a song that I’ve known for almost my whole life, so it means a lot to me in that sense as well. “Walk in the streets with you and your worn-out jeans. Can’t help thinking this is how it ought to be. Laughing on a park bench thinking to myself, ‘Hey isn’t this easy?’ And you’ve got a smile that could light up this whole town, I haven’t seen it in a while since she brought you down. You say you’re fine, I know you better than that. Hey, whatcha’ doing with a girl like that? She wears high heels, I wear sneakers. She’s Cheer Captain and I’m on the bleachers. Dreaming ’bout the day when you wake up and find that what you’re looking for has been here the whole time.”

1. All Too Well – Red

If you read my album review for Red, it should come as no surprise that this song is my favorite. I don’t know what I could say here that I didn’t already say there. This is without a doubt Taylor’s magnum opus. The brilliance of the lyricism and the raw emotion and pain in Taylor’s voice makes it so incredible to listen to. Just listening to the opening chord structure makes me want to start crying. I said that Dear John was Taylor at her most angry and disappointed, but All Too Well is Taylor at her most lost, heartbroken, and resigned. This is one of those ‘Collage of Memories’ style songs (I don’t think that’s what they’re actually called, if they even have a name, but that’s what I like to call them), where the whole song is basically just a person looking back on the best moments of a relationship and comparing them with the worst moments, and feeling like they can’t think about anything else because everything is still so vivid to them, and they remember it all like it was yesterday. Taylor paints such a strong picture of those little moments, and she does a fantastic job of showing what they meant to her and how they hurt to think about once the relationship was over. Honestly, listen to this song if you haven’t. I don’t care if you don’t like Taylor, just listen. If you’re heartbroken, or even if you aren’t, I promise that you’ll get something out of this song. I’m pretty sure “After plaid shirt days and nights when you made me your own, now you mail back my things and I walk home alone” is one of my, if not my asbsolute, favorite Taylor Swift lyrics. “You call me up again just to break me like a promise, so casually cruel in the name of being honest. I’m a crumpled up piece of paper lying here, ’cause I remember it all, all, all too well.” I long to quote the entire song, but alas, I must stop at some point because this post can’t go on forever.

Valentine’s Day Playlist

Valentine’s Day. Sometimes the happiest time of the year, and sometimes the most miserable. You’re either going to want to listen to love songs, or cry your heart out. Either way, the holiday opens up the doors for a lot of great tunes.

In this post, I’m going to cater to the people who aren’t alone (or are just in the mood for some romance regardless) and present a lovey-dovey song compilation, perfect for Valentine’s Day. And yes, I’m aware that Valentine’s Day was over a week ago. I just got the idea to do this, and I think February as a whole is a month for love, so too bad. My top song will be in a different color.

1. At Last – Etta James

This is a classic wedding song, and for good reason. It’s effortlessly romantic and inspiring. “At last my love has come along. My lonely days are over, and life is like a song.”

2. How Deep Is Your Love – Bee Gees

“And you come to me on a summer breeze, keep me warm in your love, then you softly leave. And it’s me you need to show, how deep is your love?”

3. Better Together – Jack Johnson

“Love is the answer, at least for most of the questions in my heart. Like why are we here? And where do we go? And how come it’s so hard? It’s not always easy and sometimes life can be deceiving. I’ll tell you one thing it’s always better when we’re together.”

4. The Way You Look Tonight – Frank Sinatra

“Yes, you’re lovely, with your smile so warm, and your cheeks so soft. There is nothing for me but to love you and the way you look tonight.”

5. This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) – Natalie Cole

Yes, I know this song from The Parent Trap. “Loving you is some kind of wonderful, because you shown me just how much you care. You’ve given me the thrill of a lifetime, and made me believe you’ve got more thrills to spare, oh!”

6. L-O-V-E – Nat King Cole

Yes, I also know this song from The Parent Trap. And fun fact, Nat King Cole is Natalie Cole’s father. I guess great love songs just run in the family. “L is for the way you look at me. O is for the only one I see. V is very, very extraordinary. E is even more than anyone that you adore.”

7. Your Song – Elton John

“And you can tell everybody this is your song. It may be quite simple but now that it’s done. I hope you don’t mind, I hope you don’t mind, that I put down in words how wonderful life is while you’re in the world.”

8. Let’s Stay Together – Al Green

This song is honestly so beautiful, and unless I find something better, I think it’s what I want my wedding song to be. “I’m so in love with you, whatever you want to do is alright with me. ‘Cause you make me feel so brand new and I want to spend my life with you. Let me say that since, baby, since we’ve been together, loving you forever is what I need.
Let me be the one you come running to, I’ll never be untrue. Oh, baby, let’s, let’s stay together. Loving you whether, whether times are good or bad, happy or sad.”

9. If I Ain’t Got You – Alicia Keys

“Some people want it all, but I don’t want nothing at all, if it ain’t you, baby. If I ain’t got you, baby. Some people want diamond rings, some just want everything, but everything means nothing if I ain’t got you.”

10. Just the Way You Are – Billy Joel

“I said I love you and that’s forever, and this I promise from the heart. I couldn’t love you any better, I love you just the way you are.”

Billy Joel: Glass Houses (1980) Song Ranking

Rating: 7.5/10

By 1980, Billy Joel was tired of being branded as a soft-rock, ballad artist, and set about creating his first rock and roll album. I think he did a relatively good job, though a lot of the songs on Glass Houses are anything but rock and roll.

In this post I’ll be ranking the songs on Glass Houses from worst to best. Hope you enjoy!

10. Close to the Borderline (Track 9)

This song isn’t bad, but it’s definitely not one of the more memorable songs from Glass Houses. I like the instrumental, but the actual vocals and lyrics don’t do much for me.

9. C’etait Toi (You Were the One) (Track 8)

I enjoy this song much more than Close to the Borderline. I don’t understand the French parts, of course, but I don’t really mind. This song gives me Turnstiles (especially Say Goodbye to Hollywood) vibes, which is a win in my book.

8. Sometimes A Fantasy (Track 2)

This song is catchy, and I like the phone dialing in the beginning, but it wasn’t one of my favorite songs off the album.

7. Through the Long Night (Track 10)

This is a very pleasant and calming way to end the album, but it doesn’t really fit with the rock and roll sound Billy was going for (not that I think it was supposed to). Regardless, it’s nice to listen to.

6. I Don’t Want to Be Alone (Track 6)

This song marks the point on this list where all the songs from here on out are my favorites from the album. Not only is the title of this song relatable, but the song itself is really fun and catchy. The story it tells is cute, and Billy’s voice sounds really nice. “I don’t want to be alone anymore, I was checking you out, I was just making sure. No, I don’t want to be alone anymore, and I want you tonight although you hurt me before. It didn’t matter that I felt like a fool, ’cause I forgot when she walked through the door. I said I’m sorry but she said it was cool, and I don’t want to be alone anymore.”

5. Sleeping With the Television On (Track 7)

This is a song about two people who like each other, but are too afraid of being hurt to talk about it. It’s very catchy, and the instrumental is fun. Really, it’s the topic of the song that makes me like it. “I really wish I was less of a thinking man and more a fool who’s not afraid of rejection. All night long, all night long, I’ll just be standing here ’cause I know I don’t have the guts to come on.”

4. All For Leyna (Track 5)

This song, while a little weird, is a fun listen. It really suits the rebellious teenager persona Billy was going for on this record. The verses and chorus have a sense of intensity and desperation about them, and it’s just a fun, angsty-teenage-boy song (I’m a girl, but still).

3. You May Be Right (Track 1)

This is probably the most genuine rock and roll song on the album, and it’s a great opener. Glass Houses opens up with the sound of breaking glass, setting up the overarching theme of teen rebellion and uncertainty. This song is a blast to listen to, and has some interesting lyrics. “Remember how I found you there, alone in your electric chair. I told you dirty jokes until you smiled. You were lonely for a man, I said take me as I am, ’cause you might enjoy some madness for a while.”

2. It’s Still Rock and Roll to Me (Track 4)

This was the biggest radio hit for the album, and I totally see why. It’s irresistibly catchy, and the the drums are infectious. Plus, it’s kind of an anthem for a whole generation of music-lovers. The lyrics aren’t particularly clever or profound, but I don’t think they had to be. That wasn’t the point of the song.

1. Don’t Ask Me Why (Track 3)

I saw someone say that this song is McCartney-esque, and I couldn’t agree more. This is by far my favorite song from Glass Houses. Like, none of the other songs come even close to it. And the thing is, I don’t know why I like it so much. I guess I just really like the instrumental, as well as his voice, which sounds really nice here. Plus, this song sounds like it could be on The Stranger, which, as I said with Turnstiles, is always a win. It’s also kind of funny that this song is my favorite from the album, because it isn’t rock and roll at all (I’d argue it’s lightly reggae-inspired). “You can say the human heart is only make-believe, and I am only fighting fire with fire. But you are still a victim of the accidents you leave, as sure as I’m a victim of desire. All the servants in your new hotel throw their roses at your feet. Fool them all, but baby I can tell, you’re no stranger to the street. Don’t ask for favors, don’t talk to strangers, don’t ask me why.”

Harry Styles: Fine Line (2019) Songs Ranked

Rating: 10/10

Harry Styles’ second solo album was very sonically different from his debut (which I plan to review as well) but in a good way. While his first album was more alternative and rock oriented, this album is indie-pop and, at times, psychedelic. I think Harry has really defined his personal sound, and honestly, this is a fantastic album. I was never a huge fan of One Direction (I’m a huge fan now, so I’m planning on reviewing some, if not all since there’s only five, of their albums), but something compelled me to listen to Harry’s solo music and I’ve been converted into a serious fan of his.

Thematically, this album explores the idea that in every relationship (and life in general) there will be moments of extreme euphoria and joy, and moments of extreme sadness. This album has songs that are meant to represent the best and worst times of a relationship, and at the end, the closing track tells us that you just need to take the bad times with the good, and even if it doesn’t end up working out, just be grateful for the memories that were made.

Before the ranking begins, I just wanna clarify that there isn’t a single song on Fine Line that I don’t like. Seriously, they all slap. Coming up with this ranking was very challenging, so I’m sorry if I ranked your favorite towards the bottom. With that being said, let the ranking begin.

12. Treat People With Kindness (Track 11)

I feel so bad ranking this last. I actually really like it a lot, so that should speak to the quality of this album. Upon my first listen this song did nothing for me, but it’s really grown on me. Mainly I just like the upbeat theme, and I love Harry’s voice in the verses. I always like when he doesn’t hold back with his vocals. On this album especially, he has a tendency to under-sing, so it was refreshing to hear him go a little crazy. I also like the vocal effects towards the end. The only thing I don’t love about this song is the chorus. Sorry. “Giving second chances, I don’t need all the answers. Feeling good in my skin, I just keep on dancing.”

11. Watermelon Sugar (Track 2)

The guitar in this song is SO GOOD. This song just has such good vibes (please pretend I used a more intelligent description). It makes me want to lay on a beach and drink a smoothie. While it’s not the deepest track on Fine Line, it’s a great addition to the record, and a great choice for single. Thematically, it continues Golden’s ideas of being in the honeymoon phase of a relationship, where you just want to be around the person as much as possible. I’m only a little bit bored of this song because it’s been played a lot, but I still like it a lot.

10. To Be So Lonely (Track 7)

This was originally one of my least favorites from the album (I never disliked it, but I didn’t love it) but it’s really grown on me. I really like how this song represents a drunk phone call, and I like how it’s a change from Cherry and Falling, where Harry is insisting to be left alone, rather than longing to be taken back. Overall, this is an awesome song and a great addition to the album. Melodically, it doesn’t grab me as much though.

9. She (Track 8)

I really like the jazzy and laid-back vibe of this song (also side note, the verses kind of remind me of A Day In The Life by The Beatles. Anyone else?) and I like the jam session towards the end. I guess it just wasn’t one of my absolute favorites, but I do think it’s a standout track because it’s very different. It’s really grown on me though. As far as mellow, dreamy jam sessions go, this song is pretty outstanding. Honestly, the only reason I have this so low is because I don’t really listen to it outside of the album, but this is a great song.

8. Falling (Track 6)

I know that most people would rank this higher up, and I would love to do that, but this song is so sad that I don’t find myself listening to it as often. I know it would make a great crying song though. Harry really delivered on that front. But I digress. Piano ballads are always a win for me (think Someone Like You and When I Was Your Man) so this song is, of course, a win as well. Harry is really open and honest here (while not being too revealing) and I think this is one of the most lyrically genuine songs on the album. “What am I now? What am I now? What if I’m someone I don’t want around? I’m falling again, I’m falling again, I’m falling.”

7. Golden (Track 1)

I really like this song. It’s just so happy, and it gives me the sunniest vibes. I like how it sets the stage for the story arc of Fine Line. This song opens up the album in the middle of the honeymoon stage of the relationship, where everything is new and exciting and fun. This is a really good song, but it’s not top tier for me. “You’re so golden. I’m out of my head, and I know that you’re scared because hearts get broken.”

6. Fine Line (Track 12)

I originally didn’t really love this song, but it’s really grown on me recently. For starters, it’s probably one of the most sonically-gorgeous songs I’ve heard in a while. The guitar is absolutely ethereal and atmospheric and haunting, and Harry’s vocals just make this song feel like a dream. Plus, I’d argue it’s the most lyrically impressive song on the album (not in the chorus, which is rather repetitive, but in the verses). The only thing that keeps this song from being higher up is the repetition in the chorus, and I wish Harry would’ve dropped the falsetto at some point. But that’s a minor complaint. This song is still absolutely beautiful and a great closer for the album. Also, I love the triumphant crescendo at the end.

5. Canyon Moon (Track 10)

I can understand why Canyon Moon isn’t a lot of people’s jam, but I happen to love it. It does have a very silly and upbeat vibe to it, which doesn’t really fit in with the other songs, but I think it suits this one very well. Something about the “I’m going home” theme really hits with me (plus it sounds great musically/vocally). It’s just very comforting and nostalgic. Moreover, I love the image this song paints. That’s one thing I really appreciate about this album; the lyrics have a very visual descriptiveness to them. Listen to this song if you want your mood to instantly go from a 3 to an 8.

4. Adore You (Track 10)

This song is a total radio song, but that doesn’t mean that it’s generic, because it isn’t at all. Rather, it’s just so incredibly catchy and infectious that it was a great choice to make it a single. The bassline and background vocals are perfection. Harry as an artist is doing a great job of bringing back 70s/80s musical style, and it’s especially apparent in this song. Harry’s voice is always lovely, but it’s really great here. In summary: Adore You is a bop for the ages, and Harry kinda saved the Top 40 with it.

3. Lights Up (Track 4)

This was such a good lead single for the album. Like, this song is so freaking good it’s not funny. The “ladadadada” part sends me. The chorus is also super catchy, and I just love the vibe of this song. Harry’s voice is perfection, as always. I pretty much never get sick of listening to this song, and I think Lights Up has a very timeless sound. It’s just such a well-put-together and gorgeous song.

2. Sunflower, Vol. 6 (Track 9)

This is a song that I wasn’t expecting to like very much, but I actually love it. It just has such a cute and summery feeling to it (it’s also, in my opinion, the most psychedelic song on the album, which adds to its fun qualities). This is the type of song that plays over a romantic montage in a rom-com. To be honest, what really makes the song for me is the high and low vocal layering on the “tonight” part. That stuff slaps. Oh, and the ad-libs at the end give me life.

1. Cherry (Track 5)

“I confess, I can tell that you are at your best. I’m selfish so I’m hating it. I noticed there’s a piece of you in how I dress. Take it as a compliment.” This song wasn’t even my favorite when I first listened to Fine Line, but I seriously love it now. The gentle acoustic and atmospheric vibe to it is so lovely. Harry’s really vulnerable on this track. Cherry sees him feeling remorseful, bitter, and even angry over the lack of communication and connection between him and his now-ex-girlfriend, and the way that he describes the lasting influence she’s had on him is really beautiful. Plus, the way it falls silent at the end and you think it’s over, just for it to softly come back with an old voice-recording playing is so artistic and creative. I know I said earlier that I prefer it when Harry extends his voice, but I really love his simple vocal approach here. It just adds to the melancholy tone. Overall, this is a gorgeously honest song that breathes life into the normal breakup song standards. “Don’t you call him baby. We’re not taking lately. Don’t you call him what you used to call me.”

Taylor Swift: Lover (2019) Songs Ranked

Rating: 7.5/10

Taylor Swift said that her seventh studio album was meant to capture the fullness of love, and all that it has to offer, which is why it is her longest album yet. This album is very lovey-dovey, which is why I’m posting this on Valentine’s Day (I was originally working on another album review, but I’ll probably post that within the next few days).

I’m really sad that this is the last Taylor album I’ll be reviewing. Of course, I’ll review her next album whenever it comes out, but that won’t be for a while. But life goes on, and it’ll happen eventually. Now before I get too sappy, let’s start the ranking of Lover.

18. ME! (Track 16)

I don’t hate this song, but I don’t like it, which makes me sad because I love almost all of Taylor’s music. It’s just so generic and bubblegum-pop, which is a stereotype that I would hate to be pushed on Taylor. Brendon’s vocals are great though, surprise surprise.

17. You Need to Calm Down (Track 14)

Yeah, Taylor really didn’t do the album justice with the early singles. Again, I don’t hate this song, I just don’t love it. I think it’s catchier than ME! so I’ve ranked it higher.

16. The Man (Track 4)

I know most people would rank this higher, but it’s just not my type of song. I’m generally not a fan of overtly political songs, and sonically it’s not up my alley.

15. London Boy (Track 11)

This song is so cute, and I love the British references, but it wasn’t one of my absolute favorites. Bonus points, though, because this song reminds me of Harry Styles.

14. I Forgot That You Existed (Track 1)

The opening track is a nice setup for the album, bringing up the themes of letting go of the past and moving forward with your life. I also like the simple production, but it’s not one of the most sonically interesting tracks.

13. False God (Track 13)

I like the saxophone at the beginning, and the dreamy vibe of this song, but overall it’s a little too sensual for my taste. I like Taylor’s vocals though, and its cool that she branched out in terms of genre.

12. Paper Rings (Track 8)

This song is honestly so adorable. I like the vocal effect on Taylor’s voice, and the chorus is super infectious. It’s one of those songs that I love listening to in the context of the album, but I don’t check out much outside of it.

11. Miss Americana and the Heartbreak Prince (Track 7)

Like I talked about with It’s Nice to Have a Friend, I think Taylor is great with cinematic lyricism, and furthermore, I think this is her best album in terms of it. The high school imagery in this song is brilliant, and I really like the chorus. Plus, that brief string part at the end always gives me chills.

10. It’s Nice to Have a Friend (Track 16)

This song was originally my least favorite, but it’s grown on me. I think it’s a very cinematic track, and it’s cute and just enjoyable to listen to. It feels like a pretty little interlude right at the end of the album.

9. I Think He Knows (Track 6)

I really like the snapping in this song, and I like how the lyrics describe being so into someone that simply seeing them makes you giddy. This is overall a very fun song.

8. Soon You’ll Get Better (Track 12)

This is actually one of the best songs on Lover, with some of the most touching and emotional lyrics, and a return to country is always a win with me. However, I don’t listen to this song very often because it makes me so sad. That’s literally the only reason this isn’t ranked higher. It depresses me.

7. Cornelia Street (Track 9)

I really love the music in this song, and I think it’s a very touching song. Taylor does a great job of portraying what it’s like to be so in love with someone that even the thought of them leaving your life breaks your heart into pieces.

6. Afterglow (Track 15)

This song marks the point on this list where all the songs from here on out are my favorites. A lot of people criticize Taylor for never taking accountability for the breakups that she describes in her songs (which I think is to an extent true) but this song completely contradicts that. Afterglow sees Taylor apologizing to her partner for starting fights that shouldn’t have had to happen, and I really like this song, not only musically and production-wise, but also for its maturity.

5. Lover (Track 3)

The titular track is Taylor at her most lovey-dovey. She sings about how comfortable and secure she feels in her relationship, and you can just tell that she’s found the one. This is the ultimate Valentine’s Day song, so give it a listen. I don’t know what else I can say. It’s just a really simple, pretty, and refreshing song.

4. Death By a Thousand Cuts (Track 10)

“I dress to kill my time, I take the long way home. I ask the traffic lights if it’ll be alright, they say, ‘I don’t know’. And what once was ours is no one’s now. I see you everywhere, the only thing we share is this small town.” This is a song that, despite how musically upbeat it is, is actually quite sad (though contrary to to the title, is not graphic). It’s also a song that I didn’t think much of when I first listened to the album, but has grown on me immensely over time, and I’m now extremely fond of. I think the production is amazing, Taylor’s vocals are great, and the lyrics are truly beautiful. I used to have it higher up in my ranking but I think I’ve overplayed it too much since this album came out. I still love it though. “My heart, my hips, my body, my love. Trying to find a part of me that you didn’t touch. Gave up on me like I was a bad drug, now I’m searching for signs in a haunted club. Our songs, our films, united we stand. Our country, guess it was a lawless land. Quiet my fears with the touch of your hand, paper cut stings from our paper-thin plans. My time, my wine, my spirit, my trust. Trying to find a part of me you didn’t take up. Gave you so much, but it wasn’t enough. But I’ll be alright, it’s just a thousand cuts.”

3. The Archer (Track 5)

“Easy they come, easy they go. I jump from the train, I ride off alone. I never grew up, it’s getting so old. Help me hold on to you.” This Track 5, like Delicate and All You Had to Do Was Stay before it, is a unique Track 5. It’s not some acoustic, mournful ballad lamenting a loss of love. It’s a vulnerable confession of feeling no one will ever love you for who you truly are. I think it’s one of the most earnest and genuine songs we’ve ever gotten from Taylor, and I really admire her for being able to take such a sad feeling and turn into such an ethereal track. I’ve seen people criticize this song for being very still and motionless (that is, not having any crescendo or major key changes) but I actually like that about. It’s like Taylor’s just having a quiet discussion through song. “All the king’s horses, all the king’s men, couldn’t put me together again. ‘Cause all of my enemies started out friends, help me hold on to you.”

2. Daylight (Track 18)

“And I can still see it all in my mind. All of you, all of me, intertwined. I once believed love would be black and white, but it’s golden. And I can still see it all in my head. Back and forth from New York, sneaking in your bed. I once believed love would be burning red, but it’s golden like daylight.”This is without a doubt one of her best album closers, and such a beautiful way to conclude Lover. Fun fact, this was the song I was listening to at midnight on New Year’s Day. I think it was a great way to start off the new decade. This song sees Taylor finally being able to rejoice in the fact that someone loves her for who she is, and truly letting go of the messiness in her past. It’s very in line thematically with the album, and has one of my favorite backing instrumentals of the whole record. The bridge is absolutely stunning and makes me really emotional for some reason. I also like how it calls back to Red, which was Taylor at her most passionate, and says how she doesn’t think of love as being a bright, burning red anymore. It’s golden like daylight. A truly beautiful mark of her growth and maturity. “You’ve got to step into the daylight and let it go. Just let it go. Let it go.”

1. Cruel Summer (Track 2)

“Killing me slow, out the window. I’m always waiting for you to be waiting below. Devils roll the dice, angels roll their eyes. What doesn’t kill me makes me want you more.” Honestly, I knew as soon as I heard this song that it was going to be my favorite. Not even three tracks in, I just knew. This song is just the most fun, summery, free-spirited song ever. Imagine the sun setting as you drive down an empty road with the windows down, this song playing in the background. It would be something straight out of a movie. Cruel Summer is about being in a relationship where you’re just having fun and messing around, but being nervous to admit that you want something more serious. This song, similarly to Miss Americana, is very cinematic, and I’ve considered writing a short story based on it (haven’t gotten around to that yet). Just… listen to it if you’re looking for a summer bop (or a bop in general). It’s by far my favorite song on the album, and I just adore it. “I’m drunk in the back of the car, and I cried like a baby coming home from the bar. Oh, said ‘I’m fine’ but it wasn’t true. I don’t wanna keep secrets just to keep you. And I snuck in through the garden gate every night that summer just to seal my fate. Oh, and I screamed for whatever it’s worth, ‘I love you, ain’t that the worst thing you ever heard?'”

Adele: 21 (2011) Song Ranking

Rating: 8/10

Adele’s second album was extremely successful, with it’s lastingly popular singles and place as one of the bestselling albums of all time. 21 shows a noticeable new maturity in comparison to 19, evident by the lyrics and tone.

In this post I’ll be ranking all of the songs from Adele’s sophomore album, 21, from worst to best, based on my personal enjoyment, lyrics, music, and legacy. Enjoy!

11. I’ll Be Waiting (Track 8)

Real talk, there isn’t a weak track on this album. Even this one, my least favorite, is really good, and I can totally imagine it being someone else’s favorite. I guess I’m just not crazy about the melody/hook, and it doesn’t have much replay value for me.

10. Lovesong (Track 10)

I haven’t read any other reviews for this album, because I really want this ranking to be based on my opinions, not what other people think. However, I have a feeling that this song is probably an “underrated favorite”. I like it within the context of the album, but the vibe of it just isn’t my thing. To be honest, it creeps me out a little.

Update: I just found out this song is a cover. Doesn’t change my opinion though.

9. Take It All (Track 7)

I really like this song as part of the album, and it’s pretty close to being a favorite, but if I had to skip songs on the album, this would be one of them.

8. Don’t You Remember (Track 4)

This is a sweet but melancholy plea for a former lover to remember the good times, and I really enjoy it. Adele’s vocals are wonderful as always, but I feel like they really shine and compliment the tone of the song here. I would have it higher up, but I can’t rank it among the top tracks.

7. He Won’t Go (Track 6)

This song marks the point on this list where all the songs from here on out are my favorites. This song doesn’t stand out much from the other non-singles sonically or thematically, but for some reason I find myself enjoying it a lot more than the previous songs. Maybe it’s the bridge.

6. Turning Tables (Track 3)

This is a really great song. It’s emotional, piano/strings driven, and the bridge is awesome. I would have it higher, but it’s probably the least relatable of the singles for me. Make no mistake, I really like it though.

5. One And Only (Track 9)

This song didn’t do much for me upon my first listening of this album, but upon relistening, I actually love it. It’s very relatable, and Adele’s vocals are fantastic. Additionally, the instrumental is awesome. It’s like, jazz, meets blues, meets soul, meets gospel.

4. Rumour Has It (Track 2)

All the singles from this album are so iconic, it was actually really hard to put them into order. To be honest, all the top 4 (except for number one, ’cause that one’s untouchable) are neck-and-neck. I don’t know what to say about this song. Just listen to it if you haven’t, ’cause it’s pure diva/pettiness perfection.

3. Set Fire to the Rain (Track 5)

This was one of my favorite songs when I was younger, so I guess you could say I’m a little biased towards it, but regardless, I think no one can deny that it’s an amazing song. I still don’t really know what “set fire to the rain” is supposed to mean, but I’m sure it’s something meaningful. I really like piano ballads (I am aware this isn’t solely piano, but it’s piano driven, so whatever) so it’s no surprise I love this song.

2. Rolling in the Deep (Track 1)

The album’s opener does a great job of showing how 21 is sonically different from 19. It establishes a more upbeat sound, and an angrier theme. This song is really empowering, but also gets me angry at an ex-boyfriend who doesn’t exist. The lyrics describe Adele finally seeing someone for who they always were, and being scorned at how the relationship fell apart when it could’ve been great. “The scars of your love remind me of us, they keep me thinking that we almost had it all. The scars of your love, they leave me breathless. I can’t help feeling we could’ve had it all, rolling in the deep. You had my heart inside of your hand, and you played it to the beat.”

1. Someone Like You – Track 11

“We were born and raised in a summer haze, bound by the surprise of our glory days. I hate to turn up out of the blue, uninvited, but I couldn’t stay away, I couldn’t fight it. I’d hoped you’d see my face and that you’d be reminded, that for me, it isn’t over.” Someone Like You by Adele is probably one of my favorite songs of all time, so I knew before even listening to the full album that this would be number one. From the lovely piano (this is a lone piano ballad, and I love it for that) to the gorgeous lyricism, there’s nothing I don’t adore about this song. It’s stripped back and emotional, and it’s relatable to everyone at some point in their life. “Don’t forget me, I beg. I’ll remember you said ‘sometimes it lasts in love, but sometimes in hurts instead’.”

January 2020: Music Recap

January is my favorite month of the year, and it’s also been a great month for my musical discoveries. I think 2020 has started off on a good foot musically, so without further ado, let’s get into the recap.

1. Treasure – Bruno Mars

2. 24K Magic – Bruno Mars

3. You Were Meant For Me – Jewel

I would say this is my favorite song I discovered this month.

4. I Don’t Wanna Miss a Thing – Aerosmith

5. I Need You – The Beatles

Check out my full review for this album and song here: https://annasmusicworld.art.blog/2020/01/11/help/

6. I Want to Hold Your Hand – The Beatles

7. American Pie – Don McLean

I’d heard this song before this past month, but I really started appreciating it in all of it’s 8-minute glory this month.

8. Free Bird – Lynyrd Skynyrd

9. Like a Rolling Stone – Bob Dylan

I discovered this song through Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time list.

10. Kiss Me – Sixpence None the Richer

11. Show Me the Way – Peter Frampton

12. Unanswered Prayers – Garth Brooks

My mom introduced me to this song during a car trip, and I think it’s very beautiful. “Remember when you’re talking to the man upstairs, that just because he don’t answer doesn’t mean he don’t care.”