S2 E8: Taylor Swift

No Ordinary Women

This week Rose tells us all about the life of Taylor Swift! Born on December 13, 1989, in West Reading, Pennsylvania, Taylor Alison Swift's life story is a fascinating blend of determination, talent, and resilience. Taylor's parents, Andrea and Scott, married in 1988, and her unique name was chosen to keep her options open in a business world that often assumes gender. Her upbringing on a 15-acre Christmas tree farm fueled her love for the holiday season, inspiring her hit song "Christmas Tree Farm." Early on, Taylor's passion for music shone bright. She fearlessly pursued her dreams, going door to door on Nashville's Music Row to get noticed. Her dedication led her to master the guitar, honing her skills for hours each day.

At just 14, Taylor signed with Sony/ATV Publishing, moving to Nashville and carving her path in the music world. With hits like "Tim McGraw" and a platinum-certified self-titled album, she quickly rose to stardom. Taylor's success continued with albums like "Fearless" and "Speak Now," showcasing her ability to captivate audiences with both her voice and her personal experiences.

Beyond her music, Taylor used her platform to speak up for causes she believed in. Her endorsement of a political candidate led to a surge in voter registrations, emphasizing her influence on and off the stage. Despite the highs, Taylor faced challenges like the infamous Kanye incident, which revealed her strength in the face of adversity. She later emerged even stronger with albums like "Red," "1989," "Folklore," and "Evermore," showcasing her evolution as an artist. Taylor's ongoing journey to regain control of her master recordings showcased her determination and commitment to her craft. With re-recordings and new releases, she's rewriting her legacy on her terms.

From her early beginnings to her recent successes, Taylor Swift's story is one of resilience, authenticity, and embracing change. Her music resonates with millions, and her impact extends beyond the charts.

Thank you to our sources!!

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Taylor-Swift

https://people.com/music/all-about-taylor-swift-parents-scott-andrea-swift/

Netflix Documentary: Miss Americana

https://people.com/music/taylor-swift-john-mayer-relationship-timeline/

https://variety.com/2022/music/news/taylor-swift-addresses-eras-tour-ticketmaster-fiasco-1235436036/

https://variety.com/2020/music/news/taylor-swift-kanye-west-phone-call-leaks-read-full-transcript-1203541363/

https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2016/10/taylor-swift-original-famous-lyrics-kanye-west