Nashville, Tennessee has been the source of Taylor Swift’s music inspiration for nearly two decades, and now the singer is taking her hometown fans back to where it all began. In front of an impressive crowd of 70,000 fans, the popular artist announced the release of her highly anticipated re-recording of the Nashville-era 2010 album “Speak Now,” set for release on July 7.
Swift has been re-releasing her old records in 2021 as she wanted to own her masters, which have been disputes with music executive Scooter Braun who ultimately bought the ownership but later sold it. The re-recording of “Speak Now” will be the third recording under “Taylor’s Version” after the releases of 2008’s “Fearless” and 2012’s “Red” earlier this year.
Swift’s announcement followed a performance of “Sparks Fly,” one of the records from the “Speak Now” album that she wrote and produced entirely on her own. Swift began the nearly 3.5-hour show with the line, “It’s been a long time coming, but it’s you and me, that’s my whole world,” from “Miss Americana & The Heartbreak Prince” and delighted the crowd with her musical theatre style performance.
The Eras Tour focuses on Swift’s personal and musical journey, breaking up the show into acts, and presenting a variety of outfits, color schemes, choreographed dancers, and songs. Swift presented over 40 songs during the show, with highlights such as “Shake It Off,” “You Belong With Me,” “Bad Blood,” “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together,” and “Anti-Hero.”
Swift also paid tribute to some of her lesser-known songs, performing her fan-favorite “All Too Well,” and bringing out her opening act, Phoebe Bridgers, for their duet “Nothing New,” which is a vault track released on “Red (Taylor’s Version).”
The excitement for the Eras Tour started with a chaotic ticketing system, but those who joined the packed crowd for the first of three shows in Nashville were excited to dress up in cosplay outfits inspired by Swift’s songs. Swift thanked the audience for being part of her journey and attributed her success to the people of Nashville.
In conclusion, the Swift’s re-recording of “Speak Now” is expected to create a huge buzz in the music industry. The album has been one of Swift’s most phenomenal works, and the new release will give her fans a chance to experience it in a different and exciting way. Swift’s Eras Tour has been a great success, and the music icon has proved once again why she is one of the best in the industry. Nashville is proud of its queen and will continue to support her in her journey.
—
**Editor’s Advice:**
It’s important for artists to have control over their work and ownership of their masters. Swift’s re-recording of her early albums will not only buy back her work but also help her to reconnect with her fans and continue to build her legacy. Musicians should legally and financially protect their work from shady contracts and ownership disputes, and focus on delivering high-quality music.
The Eras Tour is a prime example of how artists can override the challenges of the pandemic and deliver world-class entertainment. Performing live shows can be expensive, but the experience it provides for the fans is unparalleled and is worth the investment. Musicians should also learn to appreciate their roots and take their fans on their musical journey, which can create a strong following that stays with them for life.
<< photo by Mikhail Nilov >>
