Taylor Swift Cover Songs: A Comprehensive List

Hey Swifties! Ever wondered what songs Taylor Swift has covered over the years? Well, you're in the right place! Taylor is not just an incredible songwriter and performer of her own music, but she also has a knack for putting her unique spin on other artists' songs. From country classics to pop anthems, Taylor's covers are always a treat. Let's dive into a comprehensive list of Taylor Swift's cover songs and explore some of the standout performances that have delighted fans around the globe.

Early Country Covers

In her early career, Taylor Swift often covered country songs that reflected her roots and influences. These performances not only showcased her vocal talent but also paid homage to the artists who inspired her. Let's explore some of these notable covers.

Tim McGraw - "Tiny Dancer" (Elton John Cover)

Before she was Taylor Swift, global superstar, she was just a young girl with a guitar covering her favorite songs! Early in her career, during her rise to fame, Taylor frequently covered Tim McGraw's song "Tiny Dancer", an Elton John classic. Taylor's rendition maintains the song's heartfelt emotion while adding a youthful, country-tinged vibe. It’s fascinating to hear how she interprets such an iconic song, giving it a fresh, personal touch. What makes this cover particularly special is how it connects Taylor to her country roots while hinting at the pop sensibilities she would later embrace. You can find early recordings of these performances online, and they offer a charming glimpse into her early artistry. Taylor's ability to connect with the audience, even at a young age, shines through, making this cover a must-listen for any Swiftie.

Rascal Flatts - "What Hurts the Most"

Another early favorite in Taylor's cover repertoire was Rascal Flatts's hit, "What Hurts the Most." This song, known for its emotional depth and powerful vocals, provided Taylor with a great platform to showcase her vocal range and emotional interpretation. Taylor's version often included her signature storytelling flair, making the performance even more engaging. The choice of this song reflects Taylor's connection to the country music scene and her ability to tap into universal feelings of heartbreak and longing. Fans loved how she made the song her own, adding a layer of vulnerability that resonated deeply. Live performances of this cover are available on various fan sites and YouTube channels, offering a nostalgic trip back to Taylor's early career.

Dixie Chicks - "Landslide" (Fleetwood Mac Cover)

Paying tribute to influential female artists, Taylor Swift covered "Landslide," originally by Fleetwood Mac but famously covered by the Dixie Chicks. Taylor's version emphasizes the song's raw emotion and introspective lyrics. Her acoustic rendition highlights her delicate vocals and heartfelt delivery. Covering "Landslide" was a perfect choice for Taylor, as it aligns with her songwriting themes of change, reflection, and personal growth. This cover not only demonstrates her respect for the Dixie Chicks but also showcases her ability to connect with different generations of music lovers. Fans often praise Taylor's interpretation for its sincerity and emotional resonance. Performances of "Landslide" are cherished by fans, offering a glimpse into Taylor's musical influences and her ability to transform a classic into something uniquely her own.

Pop and Rock Anthems

As Taylor Swift transitioned into the pop world, her cover choices expanded to include some of the biggest pop and rock anthems. These covers allowed her to experiment with different genres and showcase her versatility as a performer.

Beyoncé - "Crazy in Love"

In a surprising yet iconic move, Taylor Swift covered Beyoncé's "Crazy in Love," one of the defining pop songs of the 21st century. Taylor's version brought a rock-infused twist to the R&B classic, incorporating heavy guitar riffs and a more upbeat tempo. This bold cover demonstrated Taylor's willingness to step outside her comfort zone and experiment with different musical styles. While some fans were initially surprised, most admired her for taking on such an ambitious project and making it her own. Live performances of this cover are energetic and fun, showcasing Taylor's stage presence and her ability to engage a large audience. This cover remains a testament to Taylor's versatility and her fearless approach to music.

Eminem - "Lose Yourself"

During one of her "1989" World Tour shows, Taylor Swift surprised fans by performing an acoustic version of Eminem's "Lose Yourself." This unexpected cover highlighted Taylor's ability to strip down a high-energy rap song and transform it into an emotional ballad. Her rendition focused on the song's powerful lyrics about determination and overcoming obstacles. The acoustic arrangement allowed fans to appreciate the depth of the lyrics in a new light. This cover was particularly memorable because it showcased a completely different side of Taylor and demonstrated her ability to connect with a wide range of musical genres. The performance was met with widespread praise, proving that Taylor's talent knows no bounds.

Vance Joy - "Riptide"

Taylor Swift has also shown her appreciation for indie music by covering Vance Joy's hit song, "Riptide." Her version maintains the song's laid-back, acoustic vibe while adding her personal touch. Taylor's rendition is simple yet captivating, highlighting the song's catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics. Covering "Riptide" demonstrates Taylor's ear for good music, regardless of genre. It also reflects her support for fellow artists and her willingness to introduce her fans to new sounds. This cover is a favorite among those who appreciate Taylor's more understated and intimate performances.

Surprise Performances and Special Occasions

Taylor Swift is known for surprising her fans with unexpected covers during her concerts and special events. These performances often become legendary moments, showcasing her spontaneity and connection with her audience.

"Livin' on a Prayer" - Bon Jovi

At a charity event, Taylor Swift joined Bon Jovi on stage to perform "Livin' on a Prayer," creating an unforgettable moment for everyone in attendance. Taylor brought her signature energy to the rock anthem. The unexpected collaboration between Taylor and Bon Jovi was a highlight of the evening, demonstrating the power of music to bring people together. This performance remains a cherished memory for fans who were lucky enough to witness it live.

"I Kissed a Girl" - Katy Perry

During her "Reputation" Tour, Taylor Swift surprised fans by bringing out Katy Perry to perform Perry's hit song, "I Kissed a Girl." This performance marked a public reconciliation between the two pop stars, ending a long-standing feud. The duet was a powerful symbol of unity and friendship, celebrated by fans around the world. Taylor and Katy's performance was not only musically enjoyable but also emotionally significant, demonstrating the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation.

"Can't Stop Loving You" - Phil Collins

In one of her more heartfelt covers, Taylor Swift has been known to perform Phil Collins' classic, "Can't Stop Loving You." This song, with its timeless melody and emotional lyrics, provides a perfect showcase for Taylor's vocal range and her ability to connect with an audience on a deep, personal level. Taylor's rendition often includes a stripped-down arrangement, allowing her voice and the song's message to take center stage. The emotional depth of "Can't Stop Loving You" resonates with fans of all ages, making it a memorable and touching performance.

Conclusion

Taylor Swift's covers are a testament to her diverse musical taste and her ability to transform any song into something uniquely her own. Whether she's paying tribute to her country roots, experimenting with pop and rock anthems, or surprising fans with unexpected duets, Taylor's covers are always a highlight. So, Swifties, keep an ear out for more surprises – you never know what song Taylor might cover next! Which cover song of Taylor Swift is your favorite? Share in the comments below!