Red Lyrics

How to Format Lyrics:

  • Type out all lyrics, even repeating song parts like the chorus
  • Lyrics should be broken down into individual lines
  • Use section headers above different song parts like [Verse], [Chorus], etc.
  • Use italics (<i>lyric</i>) and bold (<b>lyric</b>) to distinguish between different vocalists in the same song part
  • If you don’t understand a lyric, use [?]

To learn more, check out our transcription guide or visit our transcribers forum

About

Genius Annotation

The title track of Swift’s album compares the emotions she felt in a relationship to colors. It was originally released as a promotional single, but was re-released as the album’s fifth official single a year later.

It is generally believed that the song is about actor Jake Gyllenhaal, since the hidden message of the song, “SAG,” could be interpreted as Swift and Gyllenhaal or Sagittarius, the zodiac sign of the two. It’s also possible that the song drew inspiration from both relationships.

Q&A

Find answers to frequently asked questions about the song and explore its deeper meaning

Translations
What did Taylor Swift say about "Red"?
Genius Answer

This relationship that I had that was, like, the worst thing ever and the best thing ever at the same time. I was writing this song and I was thinking about correlating the colors to the different feelings I went through. You have the great part of red, like the red emotions that are daring and bold and passion and love and affection. And then you have on the other side of the spectrum, jealousy and anger and frustration and ‘you didn’t call me back’ and ‘I need space.’

What certifications has the song received?
Genius Answer

“Red” is certified 2x Platinum by the RIAA.

When was this song written?
Televised performances?
Credits
Written By
Synthesizer
Recording Engineer
Assistant Recording Engineer
Mixing Engineer
Assistant Mixing Engineer
Emma Morrison
B-3 Organ
Upright Piano
Bouzouki
Steel Guitar
Percussion
Digital Editing
Recorded At
Blackbird Studios
Release Date
October 2, 2012
Songs That Sample Red
View Red samples
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