Written by Jocelyn Visnov
Whether your split was perfectly cordial, or an absolute hot mess, heartbreak is never easy.
Turning to music to help deal with the heartbreak is a common coping mechanism, and can be very effective. While your first thought may be to blast Olivia Rodrigo’s “good 4 u,” I recommend the queen of writing songs about relationships: Taylor Swift.
Luckily, Taylor has re-released a host of songs to help you get through the heartbreak. Most of which hit differently now than they did back in the early 2000’s.
After actually experiencing love and loss, these songs have new meaning. Here are a few of my favorite post-breakup anthems from Taylor Swift’s re-releases that are almost guaranteed to help you feel better after the heart-break.
We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together (Taylor’s Version)
Like, ever. This one is a no-brainer, especially if you’re still dealing with some post-breakup back and forth with your ex partner. Watch the original 2012 music video if you need an extra dose of Taylor Swift sass.
Better Man (Taylor’s Version) (From the Vault)
Within this song Taylor acknowledges that while she does sometimes miss her ex-boyfriend, she knows that breaking things off was for the best. The second verse of this song hits particularly hard: “I know I’m probably better off all alone than needing a man who could change his mind at any given minute, and it was always on your terms.”
Bye Bye Baby (Taylor’s Version) (From the Vault)
Saying goodbye is never easy. Let Taylor help you through it, and listen closely as she says “’Bye, bye, to everything I thought was on my side… I want you bad but it’s come down to nothing… you took me home but you just couldn’t keep me.”
Forever & Always (Taylor’s Version)
It’s only human to reminisce on the good times you had with your significant other. In this song, Taylor looks back on how she once saw a forever with someone who ended up breaking her heart. Turn to the piano version of this song if you’re in need of a good cry.
I Bet You Think About Me (feat Chris Stapleton) (Taylor’s Version) (From the Vault)
Do you find yourself wondering if your ex is still thinking about you? Taylor does too. The addition of Stapletons vocals in this song makes for some smooth harmonies full of emotion and passion.
I Knew You Were Trouble (Taylor’s Version)
Sometimes people come into our lives to cause nothing but just that: trouble. Taylor completely understands. Forgive yourself for what was done “a few mistakes ago,” and put this song on repeat.
Mr. Perfectly Fine (Taylor’s Version) (From the Vault)
Another vault release that we all didn’t know we needed. If you’re still seeing your ex posting to their social media, or even worse, you see them around campus, this one is a must listen to track. It’s totally okay to scream “It takes everything in me just to get up each day, but it’s wonderful to see that you’re okay.” We won’t judge.
Breakups are never going to be easy. Keep your chin up, and listen to Queen Taylor’s wise words as she guides you through every stage of the post-breakup blues.