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Taylor Swift's name is synonymous with chart-topping hits and deeply personal lyrics. But beyond the tracks she performs herself, Swift has also penned songs for other artists, many of which have become major hits in their own right. Whether it’s a pop anthem dominating the airwaves or a heartfelt country ballad, Swift’s songwriting talent knows no bounds. Some of these songs may surprise you—they're tracks you’ve sung along to, maybe even connected with deeply, but never realized they carried Swift’s signature touch. From secret collaborations to tracks that helped launch other artists' careers, these songs reveal a side of Taylor Swift that operates behind the scenes, quietly shaping the music industry one hit at a time.
1. “This Is What You Came For” by Calvin Harris ft. Rihanna
When "This Is What You Came For" dropped in 2016, it quickly became an anthem of the summer. The collaboration between Calvin Harris and Rihanna seemed like a match made in music heaven. The song's infectious beat and catchy lyrics dominated airwaves and dance floors worldwide. However, behind the scenes, there was a twist that no one saw coming—Taylor Swift had co-written the track under the pseudonym Nils Sjöberg. Initially, her involvement was a well-kept secret, even from some industry insiders.
Swift's decision to use a pseudonym was a deliberate choice, likely to avoid the public scrutiny that often accompanies her every move. The revelation came to light only after the song had become a massive hit, adding an extra layer of intrigue. The song's lyrics, simple yet effective, showcase Swift’s uncanny ability to craft hooks that stay in your head long after the music stops. "This Is What You Came For" not only demonstrated Swift's versatility as a songwriter, capable of crossing genre boundaries, but also highlighted her knack for understanding what makes a pop hit resonate with a global audience. The track remains a prime example of Swift’s ability to influence the music world, even from behind the scenes.
2. “Better Man” by Little Big Town
In 2017, the country music scene was graced with a soulful ballad that quickly captured the hearts of listeners—"Better Man" by Little Big Town. The song’s lyrics, dripping with raw emotion and regret, spoke to anyone who had ever been in a relationship that didn’t quite work out. It wasn’t until later that fans discovered the song was written by none other than Taylor Swift. Swift had penned the song years earlier during her transition from country to pop but chose to pass it on to Little Big Town, knowing the song needed the right voices to bring it to life.
The choice was a perfect one. Little Big Town’s harmonies added a layer of depth to Swift’s lyrics, turning "Better Man" into a poignant reflection on love and loss. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone reflecting on a past relationship, wishing the person they loved had been just a bit better, a bit kinder. It’s classic Swift—honest, relatable, and deeply personal. The song went on to win a Grammy for Best Country Duo/Group Performance, solidifying Swift’s status as not just a pop icon, but also a respected songwriter in the country music world. "Better Man" stands as a testament to Swift’s storytelling prowess, proving that her influence in music extends far beyond her own discography.
3. “Babe” by Sugarland
"Babe," a hit single by the country duo Sugarland, is another song that carries the unmistakable touch of Taylor Swift. Originally written during the sessions for her Red album, "Babe" was ultimately left off the final tracklist. However, Swift knew the song had potential and decided to offer it to Sugarland, a decision that proved to be brilliant. Not only did Swift co-write the song, but she also contributed her vocals, making it a true collaboration between the artists.
"Babe" is a classic Swift breakup song, filled with the regret and frustration that comes when a relationship falls apart due to betrayal. The lyrics are straightforward yet powerful, as the protagonist confronts their partner’s infidelity with a mix of anger and sorrow. Lines like "You really blew this, babe / We ain’t getting through this one, babe" hit hard, encapsulating the pain of realizing a relationship can’t be saved. Sugarland’s Jennifer Nettles delivers these lyrics with an emotional intensity that amplifies their impact, while Swift’s backing vocals add an extra layer of depth to the track.
The song received critical acclaim and was a commercial success, further proving that Swift’s songwriting abilities are just as potent when shared with others. "Babe" highlights Swift’s capacity to write songs that resonate deeply with listeners, whether she’s the one performing them or not.
4. “You’ll Always Find Your Way Back Home” by Miley Cyrus as Hannah Montana
For fans of the Hannah Montana franchise, "You’ll Always Find Your Way Back Home" is a song that perfectly encapsulates the show’s themes of staying true to yourself and remembering your roots. Featured in Hannah Montana: The Movie, this upbeat, country-pop track was a key moment in the film, providing a musical reminder of the importance of home and self-identity. But what many fans don’t know is that this catchy tune was co-written by Taylor Swift.
At the time, Swift was still deeply rooted in the country music scene, and her influence is all over the track. The song’s lyrics, while lighthearted, carry a message that resonates with Swift’s own ethos—no matter how far you go or how much you achieve, staying grounded and connected to your origins is crucial. It’s a theme that appears frequently in Swift’s music, making her the perfect choice to write for a character like Miley Stewart, who juggles a double life as a normal teenager and a pop star.
"You’ll Always Find Your Way Back Home" is not just a fun, toe-tapping song; it’s a piece of storytelling that aligns perfectly with the film’s narrative. Swift’s ability to craft a song that fits seamlessly into a fictional world, while still carrying her own signature style, is a testament to her versatility as a songwriter. This track remains a nostalgic favorite for many fans, blending the worlds of Taylor Swift and Hannah Montana in a way that only Swift could achieve.
5. “Best Days of Your Life” by Kellie Pickler
"Best Days of Your Life" is a catchy, country-pop track that put Kellie Pickler on the map. Co-written by Taylor Swift, this song perfectly encapsulates the post-breakup vindication that both artists know all too well. Released in 2008, the song quickly became one of Pickler’s biggest hits, resonating with listeners who have felt the sting of a breakup and the satisfaction of moving on.
Swift’s influence is palpable throughout the song, from the storytelling lyrics to the infectious chorus. The song tells the story of a woman who confronts her ex, assuring him that he’ll never forget her, and that the best days of his life were the ones he spent with her. It’s a sentiment that’s empowering and bittersweet, a common theme in Swift’s own music. The line "I'll be there in your dreams and in your memories" is classic Swift, blending nostalgia with a hint of spite.
Taylor didn’t just write the song; she also provided backing vocals, adding an extra layer of emotional intensity. The chemistry between Pickler and Swift is undeniable, and their collaboration brought out the best in both artists. "Best Days of Your Life" was a commercial success, peaking at number nine on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, and it solidified Swift’s reputation as a songwriter capable of crafting hits for others. This track remains a fan favorite, celebrated for its relatable lyrics and upbeat, defiant tone, making it a staple in both Pickler’s and Swift’s repertoires.
6. “Two Is Better Than One” by Boys Like Girls ft. Taylor Swift
"Two Is Better Than One" is a romantic ballad that became an emo-pop anthem in the late 2000s. Released by Boys Like Girls in 2009, the song features Taylor Swift as both a co-writer and a guest vocalist. This collaboration came at a time when Swift was transitioning from country to mainstream pop, and her contribution to the track played a significant role in its success.
The song tells the story of a blossoming relationship, where the protagonists realize that life is better when shared with someone special. The lyrics are simple yet poignant, perfectly capturing the euphoric feeling of young love. Swift’s delicate, heartfelt vocals complement the lead singer’s, adding an emotional depth that elevates the song from a standard love ballad to something truly memorable.
"Two Is Better Than One" was a commercial success, charting on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a go-to song for romantic occasions. It was also one of the first times Swift collaborated with an artist outside the country genre, marking a significant moment in her career as she expanded her musical horizons. The track remains a nostalgic favorite for fans of both Swift and Boys Like Girls, a perfect example of how Swift’s songwriting can transcend genres and appeal to a wide audience.
The collaboration also highlighted Swift’s growing influence in the music industry. Her ability to write lyrics that resonate with listeners, combined with her talent for crafting unforgettable melodies, made her an asset to any project she touched. "Two Is Better Than One" is a testament to Swift’s versatility as an artist and a reminder of her uncanny ability to capture the complexities of love in her music.
7. “Crazier” by Taylor Swift for Hannah Montana: The Movie
"Crazier" is a dreamy, romantic ballad that Taylor Swift wrote and performed for Hannah Montana: The Movie in 2009. The song stands out as one of the most memorable moments in the film, capturing the innocence and excitement of young love. With its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics, "Crazier" quickly became a favorite among both Swift fans and Hannah Montana viewers.
The song plays during a pivotal scene in the movie, where Miley Stewart (played by Miley Cyrus) experiences a tender moment with her love interest. "Crazier" perfectly encapsulates the emotions of falling in love—feeling like everything is more vibrant, more intense, and more magical when you’re with that special someone. The lyrics, "You lift my feet off the ground, you spin me around / You make me crazier, crazier," capture that head-over-heels sensation that defines first love.
Swift’s performance of the song in the movie added to its impact. Her presence on screen, guitar in hand, singing a song she wrote specifically for the film, created a crossover moment between the world of Hannah Montana and Swift’s burgeoning pop career. The song was praised for its simplicity and emotional honesty, qualities that have always been at the heart of Swift’s music.
"Crazier" not only enhanced the movie’s emotional depth but also introduced Swift to a broader, younger audience. It showcased her ability to write music that resonates with people of all ages, further establishing her as a versatile and impactful artist. The song’s success helped cement Swift’s status as a pop-culture icon and remains a beloved track for fans who grew up watching Hannah Montana.
8. “We Were Happy” by Taylor Swift (Originally Written for Fearless)
"We Were Happy" is a track that Taylor Swift originally wrote during the sessions for her Fearless album but didn’t release until the 2021 re-recording, Fearless (Taylor’s Version). The song is a poignant reflection on a past relationship, filled with nostalgia and a bittersweet longing for the happiness that once was. While it didn’t make the final cut of the original album, its release years later offered fans a glimpse into Swift’s evolving songwriting process and the emotional depth of her early work.
The song’s lyrics are classic Swift, weaving a narrative of love that was once perfect but ultimately fell apart. "We used to watch the sun go down / We used to hold hands and dream," she sings, painting a picture of a relationship that was full of hope and promise. But as the song progresses, it becomes clear that the happiness they once shared is now just a memory. The line "When it was good, baby, it was good, baby" captures the essence of the song—a recognition that even though the relationship ended, the good times were real and meaningful.
"We Were Happy" is a testament to Swift’s ability to tap into universal emotions, making her songs resonate with listeners on a deeply personal level. The decision to release the song as part of Fearless (Taylor’s Version) allowed fans to experience a piece of Swift’s history that had been hidden away for years. It also served as a reminder of her growth as an artist, showing how she has honed her craft over time while staying true to the themes of love, loss, and longing that have always been central to her music.
The song’s release was a significant moment for Swift and her fans, offering a chance to revisit and recontextualize her early work. "We Were Happy" is a beautiful example of how even a "vault" track can hold profound meaning, showcasing Swift’s enduring talent and the emotional honesty that has made her one of the most beloved songwriters of her generation.
Taylor Swift’s songwriting is a gift that keeps on giving, not just to her fans, but to the entire music industry. Whether she's writing under a pseudonym, collaborating with other artists, or quietly contributing to soundtracks, Swift’s influence is undeniable. Her ability to capture complex emotions with simple, relatable lyrics allows her to craft songs that resonate across genres and generations. These hidden gems showcase Swift’s versatility and her willingness to share her talent, helping other artists find their voice while continuing to shape the sound of modern music. Next time you hear one of these tracks, you’ll know—there’s a little bit of Taylor’s magic woven into every line.
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