By Lia Kovac

Despite recent controversy surrounding her masters, Taylor Swift seems to have the music industry in the palm of her hands. Earlier this year with the help from Ithaca Holdings, Scooter Braun purchased Big Machine Records for $300 million dollars. Formerly signed to the label, Swift’s masters were at stake. A feud broke out over social media between Swift and the mega music manager. One thing was clear, she was not going down without a fight. When November came around, Swift assured fans she had legally begun the process of re-recording her previous six studio albums created while signed to Big Machine Records. With these new recordings, Swift will finally have complete ownership of her masters, something she signed away at the age of fifteen. 

While Swift may be busy re-recording past chart topping songs, she somehow managed to find the time to release brand new music for her fans. In July, she released “Folklore”. The album held the number one spot for eight consecutive weeks on the Billboard Top 100 Chart. Fans heard a more mature and sophisticated side from the singer. The album could be described as an indie lover’s dream. Swift took a risk, diving head first into uncharted waters while leaving the commercial pop style behind. As the album gained both stream and downloads, Swift once again out did herself. Just five months later, she released yet another album amidst the pandemic. Within 24 hours of her announcement, Swift’s ninth studio album “Evermore” hit every streaming platform, topping the charts once again. 

“Evermore”, released through Republic Records on Dec. 11, 2020, continued the journey that she brought her listeners on in “Folklore”. Once again, the release proved that Swift is a force to be reckoned with. The stripped back approach to each song showcases her gentle vocals and poetic lyrics. The falsetto elements throughout the album adds an airy angelic quality. While indie-inspired soundscapes are highlighted in each song, she does not stray away from her musical roots. 

Since the release a few days ago, fans can not stop raving about the album. Some are convinced the two albums “Folklore” and “Evermore” are part of a trilogy, hoping a third surprise album may be in the works. With all the new music, how will Swift stans be able to memorize all these lyrics? Over the years, Swift has built one of the strongest fan bases an artist could have. Not many artists can drop an album and snatch the number one position after making a release announcement only twenty-four hours prior. As I sit here writing, “Evermore” plays in the background. I feel a sense of peace and tranquility. As I listen a bit closer, I can hear the young Swift before the bright lights and fame. The little girl writing in her room who would go on to become one of the most successful artists in history. Everyone is entitled to their opinions on music, that is certainly true. But Swift’s fearlessness, strong work ethic, and love for her fans? That is all impossible to deny.

Lia is a culture writer for La Tonique.