Verity Shuttleworth
Creative Services Lead and Video Producer
inEvidence
Jun 2024

From casual fan to full-blown Swiftie

I've always been a big music fan. The kind who obsesses over lyrics, gets emotional at gigs, and has a playlist for every mood. But lately, something unexpected has happened. I've been completely, utterly, and joyfully swept up in the Taylor Swift phenomenon. And honestly? I'm loving every second of it.

It started subtly. A song here, a documentary there. But then my daughters got involved, and suddenly, Taylor Swift wasn't just an artist we liked-she was a movement, a lifestyle, a full-scale obsession. And before I knew it, I was right there with them, screaming lyrics in the car and debating the meaning of Easter eggs in her music videos.

The great ticket hunt

When Taylor announced her Eras Tour, there was no question-we had to go. My girls were desperate to see her live, and honestly, so was I. We pre-registered, set alarms, and tried every trick in the book to get tickets. But when the sale came, it was chaos. The queues were endless, the websites crashed, and despite our best efforts, we came away empty-handed.

It was devastating. The disappointment in my daughters' eyes was heartbreaking. We had built up so much excitement, only to be shut out. It felt like the ultimate Swiftie heartbreak.

A twist of fate

Then, just when we had given up hope, something incredible happened. On the very day we completed the sale of our house, a friend called with the news we never expected-she had secured four tickets for us. It felt like fate. One door closed, another opened, and suddenly, we were going to see Taylor Swift.

It turns out that when it comes to getting Taylor Swift tickets, it's not what you know, but who you know.

The price of fandom

Of course, there was a catch. The tickets weren't cheap. In fact, they were the kind of crazy money that makes you question all your life choices. But this was Taylor Swift. This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. And so, with a mix of excitement and mild financial panic, we said yes.

Even now, I have moments of doubt. What if something goes wrong? What if the tickets aren't legit? But then I remember the look on my daughters' faces when we told them we were going. The sheer, unfiltered joy. And I know it's worth it.

The countdown begins

Now, we're in full-on preparation mode. Outfits are being planned, lyrics are being memorised, and we're watching every concert clip we can find. The excitement is real, and the anticipation is almost as thrilling as the event itself.

Taylor Swift has this incredible ability to bring people together, creating moments that feel bigger than just music.

As the concert date gets closer, I realise this isn't just about seeing a pop star perform. It's about sharing an experience with my daughters, creating memories that will last a lifetime. It's about the joy of music, the thrill of a live show, and the magic of being part of something bigger than yourself.

Swiftie for life

So here I am, fully embracing my new identity as a Swiftie. I've gone from casual fan to full-blown devotee, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Taylor Swift has taken over my life, and honestly? I hope she never leaves.