Picture to Burn

Taylor Swift

About Picture to Burn

"Picture to Burn" is a song recorded by American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift. It was written by Swift and Liz Rose, and produced by Nathan Chapman. It was released on February 3, 2008 by Big Machine Records and Republic Records as the fourth single from Swift's self-titled debut studio album (2006). It was inspired by the narcissistic and cocky nature of her former high school classmate and ex-boyfriend Jordan Alford with whom Swift never established a formal relationship. In retrospect, Swift has stated that she has evolved on a personal level and as a songwriter, claiming she processed emotions differently since "Picture to Burn". The song was chosen as a single based on the audience's reaction to it in concert. Musically, the track is of the country rock genre with prominent usage of guitar, banjo, and drums. The lyrics concern setting fire to photographs of a former boyfriend. "Picture to Burn" was praised by music critics, some who supported the feminist message. The single was commercially successful, peaking at number 28 on the Billboard Hot 100 and at number three on the country-genre chart. It was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) and has sold over one million downloads. In Canada, it charted within the top 50 and was certified gold. The music video for "Picture to Burn" was directed by Trey Fanjoy and features Swift fantasizing about taking revenge on her ex-boyfriend after she discovers him with another woman. The video also has Swift and her band performing with pyrotechnics as a backdrop. Swift promoted "Picture to Burn" via live performances, including numerous while supporting as opening act for various country artists' concert tours. It was also performed on her first headlining tour, the Fearless Tour (2009–10). 


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State the obvious, I didn't get my perfect fantasy
I realize you love yourself more than you could ever love me
So go and tell your friends that I'm obsessive and crazy
That's fine, you won't mind if I say
By the way

I hate that stupid old pickup truck you never let me drive
You're a redneck heartbreak who's really bad at lying
So watch me strike a match on all my wasted time
As far as I'm concerned, you're just another picture to burn

There's no time for tears
I'm just sitting here planning my revenge
There's nothing stopping me
From going out with all of your best friends
And if you come around saying sorry to me
My daddy's gonna show you how sorry you'll be

'Cause I hate that stupid old pickup truck you never let me drive
You're a redneck heartbreak who's really bad at lying
So watch me strike a match on all my wasted time
As far as I'm concerned, you're just another picture to burn

And if you're missing me, you'd better keep it to yourself
'Cause coming back around here would be bad for your health

'Cause I hate that stupid old pickup truck you never let me drive
You're a redneck heartbreak who's really bad at lying
So watch me strike a match on all my wasted time
In case you haven't heard, I really, really hate that
Stupid old pickup truck you never let me drive
You're a redneck heartbreak who's really bad at lying
So watch me strike a match on all my wasted time
As far as I'm concerned, you're just another picture to burn

Burn, burn, burn, baby, burn
Just another picture to burn
Baby, burn

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Taylor Swift

Taylor Alison Swift is an American singer-songwriter and actress. Raised in Wyomissing, Pennsylvania, she moved to Nashville, Tennessee, at the age of 14 to pursue a career in country music. more »

141 fans

Written by: Elisabeth Wagner Rose, Taylor Alison Swift

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, OLE MEDIA MANAGEMENT LP, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


11 facts about this song

Album Release
"Picture to Burn" is the fourth single from Taylor Swift's self-titled debut album, which was released in 2006.
Song Genre
The song is a mix of country and pop, typical of Swift's early musical style.
Songwriters
Swift co-wrote "Picture to Burn" with Liz Rose, a prominent country music songwriter who has worked with many other artists.
Music Video
The music video for the song, directed by Trey Fanjoy, includes a humorous storyline where Swift and her friends spy on an ex-boyfriend.
Inspiration
As with many of Swift's songs, “Picture to Burn" is believed to have been inspired by a real-life relationship. The singer has not revealed who specifically inspired this song, but it's rumored to be about her high school boyfriend.
Chart Performance
"Picture to Burn" reached number three on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart in the United States, marking her fourth consecutive top ten from her debut album.
Controversy
Initially, the lyrics included a line that some perceived as negative towards men, which was later changed for radio versions. Swift has since clarified that the song is about one specific person and not a general statement about all men.
Apology
In the music track, Swift apologizes to her ex-boyfriend's mother – a personal touch that emphasizes the kind of direct, confessional songwriting that she is known for.
Live Performances
"Picture to Burn" has been a part of the setlist of three of Swift’s tours: Fearless (2009–10), Speak Now (2011–12), and Reputation Stadium Tour (2018).
Certifications
The song has been certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for shipments exceeding a million copies in the United States.
Evolution of Style
"Picture to Burn," with its pronounced country influences, showcase how Swift's musical style has evolved since her debut. Today, Swift's music is more pop and indie folk-focused, highlighting her versatile music career.

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