Feel the spotlight with “Actually Romantic,” a heartfelt gem from Taylor Swift‘s twelfth studio album The Life of a Showgirl, out now since October 3, 2025, via Republic Records. This 12-track project dives into the highs and lows of Swift’s public persona, inspired by the glitz and grind of her Eras Tour, and co-produced with longtime collaborators Max Martin and Shellback for that signature pop punch. Fresh from The Tortured Poets Department in 2024, Swift announced this era with a surprise drop on Travis Kelce’s podcast, tying it to her relationship and the thrill of show business. The mint-green cover art shows her floating in a diamond bodysuit, hinting at the album’s blend of vulnerability and dazzle.
“Actually Romantic” is a witty and heartfelt track that dives into the complexities of love and admiration through a lens of playful irony and genuine emotion. Known for her masterful storytelling and sharp lyricism, Taylor Swift delivers this song with a mix of sarcasm and sweetness, showcasing the push-and-pull dynamics of a unique romantic connection. The lyrics reveal a characteristically clever take on unconventional love, where even teasing and rivalry are woven into a tapestry of affection.
In “Actually Romantic,” Swift reflects on the unexpected ways love manifests, highlighting the effort and attention her admirer dedicates to her, despite chaotic or awkward moments. The song balances humor and sincerity, with vivid and relatable imagery, like “a toy Chihuahua barking from a tiny purse,” which adds charm and personality to the narrative. The chorus celebrates the dedication behind the romantic gestures, framing them as both wild and sweet, emphasizing how love is often imperfect yet deeply meaningful. Whether you’re replaying for the Kelce Easter eggs or the Eras Tour callbacks, “Actually Romantic” makes the ordinary feel electric.
Dive into the Actually Romantic lyrics below and unpack its glowing heart. Don’t miss other The Life of a Showgirl tracks like Ruin The Friendship or The Fate of Ophelia for more of Swift’s dazzling pop poetry.
| Lead Vocals | Taylor Swift |
| Songwriter | Taylor Swift, Max Martin & Shellback |
| Music Producer | Taylor Swift, Max Martin & Shellback |
| Composer | Taylor Swift, Max Martin & Shellback |
| Mastering Engineer | Randy Merrill & Ryan Smith |
| Mixing Engineer | Șerban Ghenea |
| Produced At | MXM Studios (Stockholm, Sweden) & Shellback Studios (Stockholm, Sweden) |
| Publisher | MXM Music, Universal Music Group, Kobalt Music & TASRM PUBLISHING |
| Distributor | Universal Music Group |
| Label | Republic Records |
| Release Date | October 3, 2025 |
| Song Language | English |
| Copyright © | Taylor Swift |
| Recorded At | Shellback Studios (Stockholm, Sweden) |
Lyrics of Actually Romantic by Taylor Swift
[Verse 1]
I Heard You Call Me “Boring Barbie” When The Coke’s Got You Brave
High-fived My Ex And Then You Said You’re Glad He Ghosted Me
Wrote Me A Song Saying It Makes You Sick To See My Face
Some People Might Be Offended
[Chorus]
But It’s Actually Sweet
All The Time You’ve Spent On Me
It’s Honestly Wild
All The Effort You’ve Put In
It’s Actually Romantic
I Really Gotta Hand It To You, Ooh
No Man Has Ever Loved Me Like You Do
[Verse 2]
Hadn’t Thought Of You In A Long Time
But You Keep Sending Me Funny Valentines
And I Know You Think It Comes Off Vicious
But It’s Precious, Adorable
Like A Toy Chihuahua Barking At Me From A Tiny Purse
That’s How Much It Hurts
How Many Times Has Your Boyfriend Said
“Why Are We Always Talking ’bout Her?”
[Chorus]
It’s Actually Sweet
All The Time You’ve Spent On Me
It’s Honestly Wild
All The Effort You’ve Put In
It’s Actually Romantic
I Really Gotta Hand It To You, Ooh
No Man Has Ever Loved Me Like You Do
[Bridge]
You Think I’m Tacky, Baby
Stop Talking Dirty To Me
It Sounded Nasty, But It Feels Like You’re Flirting With Me
I Mind My Business, God’s My Witness That I Don’t Provoke It
It’s Kind Of Making Me Wet (Oh)
[Chorus]
‘Cause It’s Actually Sweet
All The Time You’ve Spent On Me
It’s Honestly Lovely
All The Effort You’ve Put In
It’s Actually Romantic
Really Got To Hand It To You, To You
No Man Has Ever Loved Me Like You Do
[Outro]
It’s Actually Romantic
(You’ve Just Given Me So Much Attention; La-la-la-la)
It’s Actually Romantic (So Much; Ba-ba-ba-ba)
It’s So Romantic
