Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift is one of those rare era-defining artists. In fact, she encapsulates the second half of the 21st century to such an extent that in 2022 she was crowned artist of the decade. Heralding from Pennsylvania, she wasted no time on this front, leaving her small town of West Reading behind to hit the Nashville, Tennessee, country scene when she was only 14. Not long later, in 2006, she had a hit lauding her hero with the track ‘Tim McGraw’.

Following her early success in the country charts, her style became more pop orientated. This became particularly evident with the record that launched her to mainstream success, Red. As her popularity grew, so did media scrutiny, and soon she was thrust into the spotlight of the public eye. Relationships with Harry Styles, and a controversial award show run-in with Kanye West, fuelled a more pointed tone in her latter songwriting.

This switch up in style led to records like 1989 and Lover going bombastic. However, she has never lost sight of her origins, and her vast involvement with her own material gives her songwriting a sense of sincerity which has been celebrated by a wide range of fans (no matter what Damon Albarn controversially opines).

As a producer, songwriter, and even an actor and director, Swift is widely considered to be one of the most rightfully lauded stars of her generation. And when she isn’t writing huge hits like ‘Bad Blood’, she is heavily involved with philanthropy and progressive causes. This trailblazing from the front has led to a growing generation of sagacious female singer-songwriters inspired by her. From Phoebe Bridgers to Lucy Dacus, the string of artists who cite her as an influence is endless. Hell, even Kendrick Lamar has expressed his respect.

She might already have ten albums under her belt, but at such a young age, her career is right ahead of her. Perhaps recent acting roles in likes of David O. Russell’s Amsterdam hints that she may well move into other areas. No matter where she goes, as one of the most universally beloved stars of her generation, it is likely to be a successful venture.