Taylor Swift’s recent note to Apple Music, which she herself referred to as the “To Apple, Love Taylor” letter on her Tumblr account, is just one of many reasons why Swift deserves respect. In the letter, Taylor explained why her latest album, 1989, would not be available on Apple Music’s new, free three month trial streaming service. Swift was “shocked” and “disappointed” that Apple would not be paying artists, writers, or producers during this three-month trial period. She explains in her letter that the lack of compensation was not necessarily about the losses she would incur but, rather, the losses that new writers and hard-working producers would suffer. Apple responded quickly and has since changed their policy. Writers, producers, and artists will now be compensated because Taylor took a stand.
Even if you are not a fan of her music, you’ve got to admit that this is pretty awesome. If you’re still not convinced though, here are eight more reasons why Taylor Swift deserves respect.
1. She has always stayed true to herself.
The current music industry tends to give most of its glory to songs and artists who write about things such as sex and partying. Despite these trending subjects, Taylor has continued to write about the things she considers important. Even with the constant criticism that claims she “only writes songs about her ex-boyfriends,” Taylor continues to write about love because that is an important subject to her.
2. She has SUCCESSFULLY changed musical genres.
Most artists today wouldn’t dare change their musical style let alone what genre they are considered to be apart of. Taylor, however, took that risk AND has seen incredible success since switching from country to pop. It is truly a sign of her versatility and musical ability.
3. She is a businesswoman.
Swift was a marketing genius during the release of her latest album. High CD sales create the biggest source of revenue for musicians, but with streaming services, iTunes, and Youtube, most people don’t buy CDs anymore. Swift did not allow 1989 to be streamed or put on Youtube for many months after the album was released, and she also gave fans incentive to buy CDs instead of downloading the album from iTunes such as three bonus tracks (only available on the CD) and a chance to win tickets to see her in concert. Her sales were record breaking. Any Wharton student can appreciate that.
4. She is an incredible performer.
Anyone who sees Taylor perform live will agree it was one of the best concerts they’ve ever experienced. She gets the crowd involved, brings in special guests, adds in special effects, and always ends the night with fireworks. A Taylor Swift concert should be on everyone’s bucket list.
5. She is connected to her fans.
Swift has been known to randomly leave comments on fans’ Instagram posts, Tumblr accounts, and Twitter thanking them for their support. She would still have plenty of fans without these little gestures, but she thanks her fans because she knows she wouldn’t be where she is now without them.
6. She has become a beacon for feminism.
Taylor Swift has recently come out as a feminist, and she has not shied away from the effort since. Her newest music video, Bad Blood, features many powerful women, and shows the true strength of femininity.
7. She isn’t afraid to make fun of herself.
Whether it's in a video at one of her concerts, in an Instagram post, or at an awards ceremony, Taylor is not afraid to poke fun at herself.
8. She is generous.
There are too many examples of Taylor Swift’s generosity. Most recently she contributed $15,000 to help a firefighter pay for his family’s medical expenses after his wife and son were severely injured in a fire that he was called to put out. A little more close to home though, after a tragic accident in Emmaus, PA, Abbie Zukowski, a die-hard 11 year old Swiftie, was killed after being hit by a car. Her family took to social media in the #TaylorRememberAbbie campaign, and Swift responded in less than a week when she sent the family flowers and a note saying how sorry she was for their loss.
Taylor Swift is so much more than a singer/songwriter, and she deserves a lot of respect.
