One week after breaking Spotify’s global first day streaming record with “Look What You Made Me Do,” Taylor Swift has returned with a follow up single from her upcoming Reputation album. Early Sunday morning, Swift released “...Ready For It” online after the single had been teased during the lead-in to ESPN’s Florida State versus Alabama college football game. You can listen to the full track below.
Clocking in at just under three-and-a-half-minutes, the track finds Swift revisiting some familiar territory. Swift sings about directing her attention at a potential mate, but unlike “You Belong With Me,” there’s a discernable edge and no talk of cheer squad captains or being relegated to the bleachers.
“Knew he was a killer first time that I saw him/Wondered how many girls he had loved and left haunted/But if he’s a ghost then I can be a phantom/Holding him for ransom,” Swift sings.
The song racked up half a million views within one hour of release, and as expected the rabid fan base of “Swifties” came out in full force to show their support via Twitter.
Taylor Swift enjoys stabbing in the heart and I love it!! #READYFORIT I WASNT READY FOR IT GURL! pic.twitter.com/cg9o8swrpz
I'm sorry I can't come to the phone right now taylor swift just released another banger and I wasn't ready for it
Ready For It x Taylor Swift GO GO GOOOOO 😍😍
Given the tepid critical reception to “Look What You Made Me Do,” it should be interesting to see how critics respond to what can best be described as Swift’s foray into EDM-influenced music. Deep synths and a bass drop make for a sharp departure from Swift’s early, acoustic guitar-driven offerings.
The backlash to Swift being perceived as playing the victim and throwing subliminal shots at Kanye West and Kim Kardashian on her initial single was harsh, and being accused of outright biting Beyoncé's “Formation” for the accompanying video didn’t help.
Time will likely tell, as the promotional run leading up to the November 10 album release date continues. In the meantime, you can purchase “...Ready For It” via iTunes if you’re so inclined.
