The Taylor Swift Phenomenon

Taylor Swift stands as a remarkable global icon, wielding influence across music, image, politics, and advocacy spanning almost two decades.  

We welcome you to join us for an evening of live music and a series of talks unravelling the extraordinary influence that Taylor Swift has had on popular culture. From exploring how her fame exposes society’s complex views on women and misogyny, revealing how her lyrics foster community and can be read as poetry, and uncovering the economic power of "Swiftonomics", this promises to be an inspiring event that will delve deep into the legacy of one of the most influential figures of our time. 

Speakers

• Host: Professor Sarah Montano, Professor of Retail Marketing, University of Birmingham.

• Dr Iona Murphy, Lecturer in Humanities, University of Huddersfield

"Swirled you into all of my poems”: can Taylor Swift’s lyrics be read as poetry?’

Taylor Swift often references poetry in her lyrics, even sharing her own. This talk explores her lyrics through a poetic lens comparing them to prominent nineteenth and twentieth century poets such as Sylvia Plath, Robert Frost, and Emily Dickinson. By analysing sound, technique, and themes, it will highlight how Swift’s lyrics can be read as poetry, making this art-form more accessible to a wider audience. 

• Dr David Pattie, Senior Lecturer in Drama and Theatre Arts, University of Birmingham 

‘You guys seem cool’; Taylor Swift, the Eras tour, and the audience.’

The Eras tour is designed to take the audience through different stages of Swift’s career; but it is also designed to achieve something paradoxical- to take the largest of stages, and to make them intimate. This talk will examine how Swift achieves this sense of closeness with her audience by invoking personal narratives and fostering moments of direct communication.

• Dr Sophie King Hill, Associate Professor, Health Services Management Centre, University of Birmingham

‘The Taylor Swift Paradox: The woman as pariah and hero’

“Taylor Swift has gained an enormous following and fame over the years, yet she’s viewed as both a hero and a pariah, depending on public perception. This talk examines how Swift's portrayal reveals societal views on women, misogyny, and the conflicting roles assigned to female figures. Swift's dual image as a sexualised role model and controversial figure provides insights into these social dynamics.” 

• Aidan Thompson, Honorary Senior Research Fellow, University of Birmingham

'Not on your own, kid': Civic and Moral Virtue in the Lyrics of Taylor Swift’

Taylor Swift’s lyrics foster community and civic engagement, highlighting the impact of her words on fan mobilisation. From trading friendship bracelets at her Eras Tour; an act which originated in response to a lyric 'You're on your own, kid', to lyrics with moral value, the discussion will show how Swift's music prompts fans to unite and act for the greater good as well as recommend ways in which lyrics can be used in teaching practices to develop learners' character.

• Dr Maria Psyllou, Associate Professor (Senior Lecturer) in Economics, Finance and Banking, University of Portsmouth London and Dr Sharin McDowall- Emefiele, Assistant Professor in Economics, University of Birmingham 

‘I Make the Rules up as I go: The Economic Power of Swiftonomics’

Taylor Swift has undoubtedly proven herself as both an economic phenomenon and a successful businesswoman. Her remarkable financial success has set new benchmarks in the music industry and led to substantial economic activity. This talk will showcase the massive global and national economic impact of Taylor Swift's tour, exploring how her combination of talent and business acumen creates waves far beyond the stage.