Taylor Swift has made her highly-anticipated return with the release of her latest original song, “I Knew It, I Knew You,” which debuted on Friday, June 5. This new track is featured in the forthcoming film, Toy Story 5, and is a significant highlight in the pop superstar’s career.
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In celebration of the song’s release, Swift took to Instagram to reflect on her long-standing affection for the Toy Story franchise. In a charming throwback clip, she shared an endearing memory of herself dressed as a cowgirl, complete with a red and white ensemble that included cowboy boots and a matching hat. The nostalgic post served as a reminder of her childhood connection to the beloved series.
Swift described the creative process behind the song as both an exploration and a homecoming. “Writing this song felt like a musical departure and coming home at the same time,” she remarked in her Instagram post. She acknowledged the unique challenge that writing for the character Jessie presented, while also expressing how natural it felt to be involved in such a project. “Being a Toy Story kid from the age of five till now… is an adventure I plan to be on, to infinity and beyond,” she added.
The pop icon extended her gratitude to the film’s director and screenwriter, Andrew Stanton, thanking him for envisioning her involvement in Toy Story 5. She also recognised the contributions of composer Randy Newman, whose work has helped define the musical landscape of the Toy Story series over the years. Swift expressed her admiration for Newman’s “gorgeous sonic tapestry of songs and scores” that has enriched the franchise.
The track was created in collaboration with Swift’s long-time friend and collaborator, Jack Antonoff. She described the connection they share and how it influenced the writing process. “We wrote this with so much adoration for these characters that made us laugh and helped us learn lessons and think outside the backyard throughout our childhoods,” Swift stated.
The song’s release follows a period of anticipation, which included weeks of speculation about Swift’s involvement in the Toy Story film. Just days prior to the launch, she shared cover art for the single, where she showcased her signature curls alongside a bohemian Western aesthetic. The excitement surrounding the song was palpable, especially since it is her first new music since the launch of her 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, on October 3, 2025.
As part of her announcement, Swift revealed the backstory of how “I Knew It, I Knew You” came to fruition. “I fell instantly in love with Toy Story 5 when I was lucky enough to see it in its early stages, and I wrote this song as soon as I got home from the screening,” she shared, emphasising the immediacy of her creative inspiration. The eagerness of her fans only grew when Pixar put up promotional billboards across major cities, further hinting at her affiliation with the upcoming film.
Screenwriter Andrew Stanton underscored the emotional weight that Swift’s contribution brings to Toy Story 5. In a recent press release, he commented that her understanding of Jessie’s character made her an ideal fit for the project. He described the song as feeling like “a long-lost family member” that belonged in Toy Story from the very beginning.
Toy Story 5 is set to hit theatres on June 19, coinciding with the anniversary of Swift’s first single, “Tim McGraw.” This timing adds layers to the excitement, as both the film and the artist celebrate milestones in their respective journeys. Swift and her passionate fanbase eagerly anticipate what this new chapter in the Toy Story saga will bring.
The arrival of “I Knew It, I Knew You” marks an exciting moment not only for Taylor Swift but also for fans of the iconic Toy Story series, blending nostalgic feelings with fresh musical talent. As the film prepares for its release, the synergy between Swift’s artistry and Pixar’s storytelling promises to captivate audiences once again.