A Note on “Say Don’t Go” (Taylor’s Version)And Why It’s the Best Vault Track on 1989 (Taylor’s Version)

Since the release of “1989 (Taylor’s Version)” and the five new tracks from the vault, there has been debate among all Swifties and listeners over which vault track is the best one.

When the track names were first revealed, many people initially felt anticipation and hype for “’Slut!’ (Taylor’s Version)”. Once the album debuted, “Is It Over Now? (Taylor’s Version)” surged to acclaim and topped the Billboard charts. But today, I am here to present my case that “Say Don’t Go (Taylor’s Version)” is the best vault track from this album.

After listening through the vault tracks, this song immediately stood out to me and had me going back to listen again and again. The song perfectly captures the essence of “1989 (Taylor’s Version)” in terms of the vibe, aesthetic, and sound. The song is heartbreakingly beautiful, detailing the despair at the end of a relationship. Swift sings: “I would stay forever if you say, “don’t go” / But you won’t.” She wants to make the relationship work and wants things to be alright, but she has come to terms with the reality of the relationship running its course and resulting in heartache.

The song starts out slow and haunting in its tone and melody. However, the chorus takes a turn and gives a more upbeat tempo to the song. The chorus states: “Why’d you have to lead me on? / Why’d you have to twist the knife? / Walk away and leave me bleedin’.”  The chorus might contain some of the most heartbreaking lyrics of the whole song, but they sound a little less sad with the more pop-sounding rhythm.

The song has become underrated, but it’s honestly one of the best songs off the entire album. Swift perfectly combined all her best musical talents into this song: the vivid lyricism, catchy pop beat, and emotional undertones. It’s rare for a song to be perfect for a good cry session and a fun time at the club at the same time. But “Say Don’t Go (Taylor’s Version)” manages to do just that.

I for one, am glad that this was one song that made it out of the vault. If your heart is already set on another vault track as your favorite, I implore you to please give this song another listen and another chance to shine.