Taylor Swift’s forthcoming album, “The Life of a Showgirl,” set for release on October 3, marks a dazzling new phase in her illustrious career. Drawing inspiration from her experiences during the Eras Tour, Swift channels influences from various iconic figures, whose legacies resonate in both her music and fashion choices.
A notable track on the album, titled “Elizabeth Taylor,” pays homage to the legendary actress. Swift finds inspiration in Taylor’s defiance against Hollywood norms, her numerous marriages, and the tabloid scrutiny that both women have faced in their romantic lives. This thematic connection emphasizes how both Swifts’ and Taylor’s lives have been shaped by public perception and relationships.
Swift’s affinity for the glamour associated with Elizabeth Taylor is further showcased in her latest visual for the album, featuring a striking pink corset designed by The Blonds, echoing Taylor’s iconic style. This is not the first time Swift has referenced the Hollywood star; she previously included a nod to Taylor in her song “…Ready for It?” mentioning Richard Burton, Taylor’s famous ex-husband.
The creative process behind “The Life of a Showgirl” intertwines various influences, including Welsh poet Dylan Thomas, who has inspired Swift’s symbolic and lyrical approaches, particularly evident in her upcoming 2024 album, “The Tortured Poets Department.” In this work, she also pays tribute to singer-songwriter Patti Smith, implying a modern contrast to their artistic greatness through her lyrics.
Swift’s admiration extends to Clara Bow, the original “It Girl” of the 1920s, and she reflects this in her song “Clara Bow,” drawing parallels between the pressures of fame and the beauty industry with lines that capture the essence of Bow’s stardom. In a show of solidarity, she also features Fleetwood Mac’s Stevie Nicks, with lyrics celebrating her influence, and even received a handwritten poem from Nicks for “The Tortured Poets Department.”
Influences across generations can also be seen in Swift’s acknowledgment of Bruce Springsteen, particularly in her “Lover” album’s track “London Boy,” showcasing her admiration for his storytelling and Americana themes. Additionally, nostalgic references to figures like Ethel Kennedy in her song “Starlight” add layers of historical context to Swift’s songwriting.
Moreover, Swift recognizes her roots in country music, with Tim McGraw being a significant early influence, evident from her debut single “Tim McGraw,” where she reminisces about a past relationship tied closely to his music. Similarly, she acknowledges Joni Mitchell as a role model for her confessional songwriting approach and praises Shania Twain for pioneering the blend of country and pop, which has influenced her own genre-crossing endeavors.
As Swift embarks on this exciting new musical journey, her ability to infuse her work with rich historical and cultural references reflects her growth as an artist and storyteller. Each influence contributes to the multifaceted persona she presents today, promising a captivating experience as she dives into this glamorous new era.