Who the Heck is Taylor Swift? And Why is Her Concert Taking Over Our City?!
If you’re in New Orleans and have somehow missed the memo, let me warn you: Taylor Swift is coming to town and it’s going to be absolute mayhem. Are you one of the ones wondering who she is and why this is such a big craze? I’m here to tell you that you are not alone. I am not a Swiftie, but I did the homework so you don’t have to. Let’s discuss Taylor Swift 101!
So Who Exactly is Taylor Swift?
She is the the pop-culture queen of the moment. Even if you think you don’t know any Taylor songs, I can promise you that you have heard her music before. She is 34 years old and got her start as a teenage country singer. She now writes most of her songs and has hits across many genres. Oh yeah, she’s a super talented guitar player too.
Her fans are known as “Swifties,” and they are a loyal bunch – from tweens to grown adults. Fans connect with Swift’s relatable lyrics and can’t get enough of her fashion choices. What makes her really stand out from other artists is the sense of community she has created within her fanbase. Taylor Swift is a movement.
What Else Makes Taylor So Popular?
Taylor has an authenticity about her that fans love. Her songs are about familiar themes such as heartbreak, empowerment and friendship. She has become notorious for dropping secret hints or messages (called “easter eggs”) in songs and on social media that fans obsess over. Swift is also know to heavily engage with her Swifties.
Why Does Her Concert Take Over Every City?
Well, this is not a simple concert; this is a massive event where tickets sell out in minutes (yes, minutes) and are resold or marked up for thousands. The Eras Tour currently touring highlights the different “eras” of her career, and this weekend she will host three sold out shows in New Orleans. Get ready for a Swiftie invasion in NOLA. Hotels? Booked solid. Police? Working 12-hour shifts. Fans? Pouring in by the tens of thousands.
Buying merchandise is a big deal for Swifties and those sales start on Wednesday, two days before the first show. Whether you’re a fan or not, there’s no denying that Taylor coming to town is an economic gold mine for the city. All these fans will need to travel, lodge, eat, shop and party during their stay. Check out this list of Taylor themed events happening.
Swiftie Things You Might Not Know
- Friendship Bracelets – You have probably seen some reference to the beaded friendship bracelets in relation to Taylor. Swiftie fans exchange these handmade bracelets at Swift’s concerts. There is a reference to making friendship bracelets in one of Taylor’s songs (“You’re On Your Own, Kid”) and fans started making and trading them as a way to connect with other fans.
- References to Eras – This tour centers around the different eras or albums in Swift’s career. Each era reflects a different theme or personal growth and different fans connect with different “eras.” Fans love representing the era they vibe the most with. Me? I’m definitely in my Toddler Mom Era right now.
- The Outfits – Swifties go all out and dress for the occasion. You will see tons of fans dressed in a variety of costumes based on the different era they are representing.
- Signs – As with many concerts these days, fans attempt to bring signs in to hopefully catch Taylor’s attention, which is kind of like trying to get someone’s attention on a Mardi Gras float. New Orleans Swities should nail this one, right?
Why Does She Matter So Much?
Whether you consider yourself a Swiftie or you’re over the craze, there is no denying that she is influential. Swift is a force to be reckoned with. She has a platform and she uses it. She has been vocal about politics, mental health and her personal life.
I hope that gave you a little background on who Taylor is and what this weekend will look and feel like in New Orleans. If you’re still rolling your eyes at the hype, just take my advice and stay far away from downtown. But if you are headed to the concert (or just wishing you were), have an amazing time and snag a pink and green friendship bracelet for me please!