Bad Blood Rhetorical Analysis

In comparing Taylor Swift’s song “Bad Blood” with the cover by Ryan Adams, the two versions have different meanings due to the manner in which each is performed. The best way to analyze these differences is to address specific lines as both have the same lyrics. In the chorus, “Cause, baby, now we’ve got bad blood / You know it used to be mad love / So take a look at what you’ve done / ‘Cause baby now we’ve got bad blood,” Swift emphasizes the words “bad,” “mad,” and “bad blood.” She sings to the beat of the bass in the background and the music has an electronic sound. Conversely, Adams voice is relaxed and slurs some of his words together, giving it a more flowing sound. The music is an acoustic guitar, which adds to the cover’s relaxed feeling. Next, the lines “Oh, it’s so sad to think about the good times, you and I” convey different emotions. Adams’ tone is somber, making him seem sad about reminiscing on the past. It is unknown what situation he is describing with this song, but whatever happened clearly upsets him when looking back on it. Swift’s tone creates a completely different emotion. She emphasizes the words “so sad” in a slightly sarcastic way as if she is not truly sad. Her song seems to be about reflecting on a past relationship that she is glad to be done with. Her tone throughout fluctuates between confident and strong and whiney like in this lyric. The whiney-ness shows that she is mocking the idea of feeling sad about the breakup. Another lyric to note is “if you love like that blood runs cold.” Swift crescendos from a soft tone to almost screaming when she sings “blood runs cold.” This line is filled with strong frustration. On the other hand, Adams chooses to sing this line softly, again seeming defeated and sad. Finally, at the end of Swift’s song she chants “hey” one last time. Adams omits this. This further perpetuates the contrast between the two covers.

Overall, Swift’s rendition of the song is dramatic and loud while Adams’ is relaxed and soft. Both artists effectively convey their themes because they are consistent in their delivery of the song. Coming out of her relationship, Swift is empowered because she left a bad situation. She has no regrets, as expressed by her confident tone. However, Adams is still hurting from his ended relationship. His rendition is filled with sorrowful emotions, and has a resigned, defeated tone. When describing similar situations with the same song, it is interesting how each can still have distinct meanings. Clearly, an artist’s tone and choice of music can have a huge impact on the message of a piece.

Martin, Max. “Bad Blood.” Lyrics. 1989. Big Machine, 2014.

Adams, Ryan. “Bad Blood.” Lyrics. Ryan Adams. PAX AM, 2014.