Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour has been nothing short of a global phenomenon, with sold-out arenas, record-breaking ticket sales, and the kind of fan dedication that only Taylor can inspire. But there’s one part of the show that keeps Swifties on the edge of their seats: the surprise songs! Every night, Taylor has taken a few moments to perform special tracks from her extensive discography, giving each audience a unique experience. So, which surprise songs has she played so far? Let’s dive into the magical list that has Swifties around the world trading secrets, swapping playlists, and hoping their favorite will be next!
The Era of Surprises: Why Taylor’s Song Choices Matter
Taylor’s decision to play two different surprise songs at each show has made every concert one-of-a-kind. And for the true fans, the anticipation of which songs she’ll play has become almost as exciting as seeing her live. The Eras Tour has spanned Fearless to Folklore, Red to Reputation, and everywhere in between, meaning no two shows feel the same. Fans never know if they’re going to get a deep cut from her self-titled album, a “vault track” from Red, or a stripped-down version of a recent hit.
Songs Swift Has Surprised Us With So Far
Here’s a breakdown of some of the surprise songs Taylor has pulled out of her musical vault during her Eras Tour. Some of these tracks are beloved classics, while others are fan favorites that have only been played a handful of times. Did your favorites make the list?
1. “Dear John” – Speak Now
When Taylor strummed the first chords of “Dear John,” fans at the show knew they were in for an emotional ride. The song, from her Speak Now album, is one of her most intense and personal tracks. The crowd fell silent, hanging on every lyric. It was a moment of vulnerability that only a song like this could create.
2. “The Very First Night” – Red (Taylor’s Version)
One of the gems from Red (Taylor’s Version), “The Very First Night” brought the house down! Fans screamed every word back to Taylor, showing that even newer songs from her re-recorded albums can bring just as much nostalgia as the original releases.
3. “Enchanted” – Speak Now
When Taylor played “Enchanted,” a fan-favorite from Speak Now, there wasn’t a dry eye in the stadium. The dreamy melody and heartfelt lyrics resonated deeply, making it a night to remember for everyone in the audience.
4. “Cornelia Street” – Lover
This Lover track made a huge impact when she performed it live as a surprise. Taylor has often been coy about the inspiration behind “Cornelia Street,” but fans love it for the raw emotions and hopeful longing in the lyrics.
5. “Haunted” – Speak Now
Swift shocked fans with “Haunted,” a high-energy rock ballad that’s seldom performed live. The intense music and haunting lyrics took fans back to the Speak Now days, proving that her older songs are just as powerful as her recent hits.
6. “Our Song” – Taylor Swift
For the true Swifties who’ve been around since the beginning, “Our Song” was the ultimate throwback. The country-pop tune that launched her career was a nostalgic moment, and it had fans singing along with pride.
7. “This Is Me Trying” – Folklore
During the quieter, more intimate part of the show, Taylor sang “This Is Me Trying,” one of the most raw and emotional tracks from Folklore. Fans were moved by her vulnerable delivery, and the song created a moment of quiet reflection amidst the spectacle of the Eras Tour.
8. “All Too Well (10-Minute Version)” – Red (Taylor’s Version)
Yes, she went there. Taylor performed the full 10-minute version of “All Too Well” at several shows, much to the delight (and emotional devastation) of her fans. The extended track has become a cultural sensation, and hearing it live was a dream come true for many Swifties.
9. “New Romantics” – 1989
The upbeat “New Romantics” from her 1989 album was a high-energy addition to the setlist, surprising fans with its inclusion. The song’s lyrics about enjoying the highs and lows of life matched the night’s electric vibe.
How Taylor Chooses the Surprise Songs
While Taylor hasn’t revealed her exact process for choosing surprise songs, fans have theories. Some believe she chooses based on the location, paying homage to the city she’s performing in. Others think it’s all about her mood, while some die-hard Swifties are convinced she has a hidden system of clues, Easter eggs, and hints.
Why Fans Love the Surprise Songs
Beyond the thrill of not knowing what they’ll get, fans love the surprise songs because they allow for a closer connection with Taylor. Every song has a story, and by choosing different tracks each night, she’s able to create unique experiences and relive memories with her fans. Whether it’s the heartbreak of “All Too Well” or the teenage joy of “Our Song,” the surprise songs capture the essence of every Taylor Swift era.
What’s Next? Swifties Can’t-Wait to Find Out
With the Eras Tour still in full swing, there are undoubtedly more surprises in store. Taylor has proven she has an endless array of songs to draw from, and her fans wouldn’t have it any other way. Every new concert brings fresh hope for a favorite track, a forgotten gem, or maybe even an unreleased song!
So, if you’re heading to an Eras Tour concert, get ready. The surprise song might just be one you’ll remember forever.