Is it country? That is what the implication was about Taylor Swift's new track for the upcoming Toy Story 5. Would Swift be able to transform herself, at least temporarily, from one-time country star to pop diva and back to country icon?
The truth might be that Swift was never truly the kind of country that Loretta Lynn fans might love. Swift was more of a torchbearer for acts that would follow, like Kacey Musgraves. All make good music (and there are only two kinds of music really: Good and bad), but Swifties' favorite singer was always a bit more pop than country.
That continues on "I Knew It, I Knew You," a song that will be sung, or at least represent, Jessie, the cowgirl from the Toy Story franchise, in the latest edition of the story.
Taylor Swift drops Toy Story 5 song that isn't country but still good
The tune, which was released on Friday, begins with a bass line that recalls Squeeze's "Tempted by the Fruit of Another" rather than what one would imagine Merle Haggard coming up with. That is overlaid with an organ and a harmonica. The latter being needed to bear any resemblance to true country.
Vocally, Taylor Swift does add just enough twang at times to imply the intent is to create a track for the genre, and a banjo plucks just enough to allow for some integrity in the quest. There is also a soft hint at 1980s radio pop. The backing vocals further prove the latter point.
Ultimately, what the listener gets is a modern country track attempt (and, let's be real, longtime lovers of the genre know that much of what goes for country today is more about selling records to the pop masses instead of trying to honor Johnny Cash or Hank Williams), but all dressed in Disney.
The song isn't dangerous, and it shouldn't be. The bottom line is the song is fine and good, but not one of Taylor Swift's best. That said, even her relatively mediocre tunes are better than most can do. The track is just upbeat enough, well-produced by the legend and longtime collaborator, Jack Antonoff, not overwhelming, and enjoyable.
That it isn't really country doesn't matter. Swift was tasked with coming up with a song for Toy Story 5, which comes out on June 19, to make sense for the character of Jessie, and draw listeners. Mission accomplished.
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