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‘1989 (Taylor’s Version)’ Is Missing Max Martin & The Internet Can Feel It

Taylor Swift is no stranger to working with the best in the business. From her long-time producer and best friend Jack Antonoff to her collaborations with singers like Kendrick Lamar and Chris Stapleton, TS knows how to do it right. However, somebody was missing on 1989 (Taylor’s Version), and the internet has some thoughts. Who is this person, you ask? None other than Max Martin. 

Karl Martin Sandberg, professionally known as Max Martin, is a Swedish songwriter and producer and also the genius we have to thank for a few of 1989’s original tracks. Martin has written over 400 songs for some of the best artists, and y’all, they are good songs: “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd, “Side To Side” by Ariana Grande and Nicki Minaj, and of course, 1989 tracks for Taylor Swift, just to name a few. Clearly, Martin is a musical genius and he works with the best of the best. No wonder Blondie collaborated with him. 

Previously, Martin worked with TS on 1989 tracks, including “Blank Space,” and “Shake It Off.” The iconic sound and production of Martin’s songs are truly what brought 1989 together. Because Martin helped create the magic that is 1989, many people are wondering where he was for its re-release. 

As it stands, neither Swift nor Martin have commented about their lack of collaboration in recent years. Perhaps Martin is just exploring other artists outside of Swift, or maybe Blondie wanted to truly make this re-record her own. Regardless, it doesn’t seem like there’s much “Bad Blood” (wink) between the two.

However, that’s not stopping Swifties from wondering where he is on 1989 (Taylor’s Version).

It seems like Swifties want their dad (Max Martin) back.

Some Swifties are begging for Max Martin to return for Reputation TV. Honestly? I’m among them, too.

Personally, I think 1989 TV is stellar, but I do agree that the sound and vibe of some songs are not the same. But, I won’t question Blondie’s decisions — she clearly knows what she’s doing. 

Eileen is a senior at Fairfield University who is studying Communications with minors in English, Professional Writing, and Women’s Gender & Sexuality Studies. She has a passion for magazine writing and hopes to pursue a career in the field. Eileen is the Entertainment & Culture Intern at Her Campus where she covers all things pop culture, entertainment, and internet trends. Eileen was formerly a National Writer for Her Campus from April 2023 - January 2024. Eileen is one of the Campus Correspondents (CCs) at Her Campus' Fairfield University chapter. She oversees the entire chapter and works with her other CC to curate ideas and events for HCFU. She also mentors and trains the editorial team and helps create content and boost engagement alongside the social media team. In her free time, you can find Eileen creating new Spotify playlists, getting a sweet treat with friends, or obsessing over Taylor Swift. If she isn’t doing that, you’ll likely find Eileen with her six best friends from school talking about their “Big Three”: "Normal People," their favorite "Dancing With The Stars" performances, and Greta Gerwig's "Little Women."