“My name is Taylor, and I was born in 1989.” This is how American singer-songerwriter Taylor Swift opens her Eras Tour — the highest grossing tour by any artist of all time, which began in March 2023, and is set to conclude in December 2024. Though a single line, it alone encapsulates Swift’s entire career, reflecting the influence of the year 1989 and its aftermath on her journey, while also showcasing what she has created since. The year 1989 was marked by significant events, including the fall of communism and the rapid rise of globalization. It also witnessed a boom in Disney films and the emergence of celebrity culture and pop capitalism, highlighted by the ascendance of iconic figures like Madonna and Michael Jackson. However, that year also ushered in a trend toward shorter, simpler songs, a movement that Swift proclaimed she is actively challenging. Billboard reports that, since the 1990s, the average song length on the Billboard Hot 100 has dropped by nearly a minute. Music critics say that Swift has transformed the industry with her distinctive songwriting style, which has emphasized intricate, longer storylines. Swift’s popularity has…
How Egyptian Swifties Build Careers and Communities from Their Love for Taylor Swift
September 25, 2024
