Taylor Swift is an American singer-songwriter who began her career as a country music artist before successfully transitioning to pop music.
Known for her narrative songwriting, which was often inspired by her personal life, she has become one of the world’s best-selling music artists, winning multiple Grammy Awards and breaking numerous records in the music industry.
About The Song
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Song Title | Cruel Summer |
| Release Date | August 23, 2019 |
| Album | Lover |
| Writers | Taylor Swift, Jack Antonoff, St. Vincent |
| Producers | Taylor Swift, Jack Antonoff |
“Cruel Summer” is a synth-pop track from Taylor Swift’s 2019 album Lover.
Known for its infectious energy and passionate lyrics, the song captures the excitement and agony of a summer romance.
It features Strong production by Taylor Swift and Jack Antonoff, with co-writing contributions from St. Vincent.
Cruel Summer lyrics by Taylor Swift
Intro
(Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah)
Verse 1
Fever dream high in the quiet of the night
You know that I caught it (Oh yeah, you’re right, I want it)
Bad, bad boy, shiny toy with a price
You know that I bought it (Oh yeah, you’re right, I want it)
Pre-Chorus
Killing me slow, out the window
I’m always waiting for you to be waiting below
Devils roll the dice, angels roll their eyes
What doesn’t kill me makes me want you more
Chorus
And it’s new, the shape of your body
It’s blue, the feeling I’ve got
And it’s ooh, woah-oh
It’s a cruel summer
It’s cool, that’s what I tell ’em
No rules in breakable heaven
But ooh, woah-oh
It’s a cruel summer with you
Verse 2
Hang your head low in the glow of the vending machine
I’m not dying (Oh yeah, you’re right, I want it)
We say that we’ll just screw it up in these trying times
We’re not trying (Oh yeah, you’re right, I want it)
Pre-Chorus
So cut the headlights, summer’s a knife
I’m always waiting for you just to cut to the bone
Devils roll the dice, angels roll their eyes
And if I bleed, you’ll be the last to know, oh
Chorus
It’s new, the shape of your body
It’s blue, the feeling I’ve got
And it’s ooh, woah-oh
It’s a cruel summer
It’s cool, that’s what I tell ’em
No rules in breakable heaven
But ooh, woah-oh
It’s a cruel summer with you
Bridge
I’m drunk in the back of the car
And I cried like a baby comin’ home from the bar (Oh)
Said, “I’m fine,” but it wasn’t true
I don’t wanna keep secrets just to keep you
And I snuck in through the garden gate
Every night that summer just to seal my fate (Oh)
And I scream, “For whatever it’s worth
I love you, ain’t that the worst thing you ever heard?”
He looks up, grinnin’ like a devil
Chorus
It’s new, the shape of your body
It’s blue, the feeling I’ve got
And it’s ooh, woah-oh
It’s a cruel summer
It’s cool, that’s what I tell ’em
No rules in breakable heaven
But ooh, woah-oh
It’s a cruel summer with you
Outro
I’m drunk in the back of the car
And I cried like a baby comin’ home from the bar (Oh)
Said, “I’m fine,” but it wasn’t true
I don’t wanna keep secrets just to keep you
And I snuck in through the garden gate
Every night that summer just to seal my fate (Oh)
And I scream, “For whatever it’s worth
I love you, ain’t that the worst thing you ever heard?”
(Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah)
“Cruel Summer” – Taylor Swift | THE ERAS TOUR 2023-24
Similar Songs By Taylor Swift
- “Anti-Hero” – A self-aware introspection of her insecurities and public image, featuring the memorable line “It’s me, hi, I’m the problem, it’s me.”
- “Blank Space” – A satirical take on media’s portrayal of her dating life, featuring Swift playing an exaggerated man-eating character with clever wordplay.
- “You Belong With Me” – A high school love story about unrequited love and the classic trope of the girl next door pining for her best friend
- “Love Story” – A modern retelling of Romeo and Juliet with a happy ending, blending fantasy with teenage romance.
- “Shake It Off” – An upbeat anthem about ignoring critics and haters while embracing your own authenticity.
- “Cardigan” – A nostalgic reflection on young love told from the perspective of an older, wiser narrator using winter imagery and folklore elements.
- “Style” – A sleek, retro-pop song about an on-again-off-again relationship that never goes out of style.
- “Wildest Dreams” – A dreamy pop ballad about hoping to be remembered fondly even after a doomed relationship ends.
FAQs
What Did Swift Tell I Heart Radio About the Song?
Swift told iHeartRadio that “Cruel Summer” was one of her favorite songs she’d ever written and expressed regret it wasn’t released as a single initially.
How Did This Song Perform on The Billboard Charts?
Released as a single in 2023, it reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and spent several weeks in top positions.
Is This a Kanye West Diss Track? One of Kanye’s Albums Was Called Cruel Summer
No, it’s not related to Kanye West. The song is about a turbulent summer romance from 2016, written in 2019.
What Has the Media Said About the Song?
Critics praised its synth-pop production and bridge.
Rolling Stone called it one of Swift’s best songs, highlighting its emotional intensity and catchy hooks.
