Taylor Swift previously said she was uninspired to include politics in her music. Now, she’s singing a different tune

In a recently released audio clip from a 2011 interview with “60 Minutes,” a then-21-year-old Taylor Swift revealed her reluctance to engage with political topics in her music. At that time, Swift stated she didn’t feel inspired to sing about political issues, a stance that has dramatically shifted over the years.

During the interview, conducted by acclaimed journalist Lesley Stahl, Swift explained her creative process: “As far as politics and who I want to be making decisions for our country and all that, I don’t really sing about that,” she said. “I don’t get melodies and ideas in my head that have to do with the issues of our economic climate. It doesn’t fit into a chorus.” This perspective highlighted her focus on connecting with fans and crafting hit songs rather than addressing the political climate.

Fast forward to today, and Swift’s evolution is evident. Now 34, she has incorporated her views on politics and social issues into her music, marking a notable departure from her earlier stance. In 2018, she made headlines when she publicly endorsed two Democratic candidates in Tennessee during the midterm elections. Although both candidates lost, Swift followed up with a politically charged song titled “Only the Young,” which was released in 2020 alongside her documentary “Miss Americana.”

In “Miss Americana,” Swift expressed her regret for not using her voice sooner to advocate for causes she believed in. In one poignant scene, she confided to her father, Scott Swift, about her desire to be “on the right side of history.” The documentary also featured her critical views on then-President Donald Trump, further showcasing her political awakening.

Swift has since become a vocal advocate for various issues, including women’s rights, reproductive health care, and LGBTQ+ rights. Her 2019 album “Lover” features the anthem “You Need to Calm Down,” which champions LGBTQ+ equality. The music video ended with a powerful message urging viewers to support the Equality Act through a petition on Change.org. “Let’s show our pride by demanding that, on a national level, our laws truly treat all our citizens equally,” the message stated, highlighting her commitment to advocacy.

Earlier this month, Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign further underscored Swift’s influence when they played her song “The Man” at a post-debate party. The song and its music video, which address the cultural double standards faced by women, sparked significant discussion upon their release. The choice to feature Swift’s song was particularly impactful following her recent endorsement of Harris’s 2024 presidential run, which included a call to action for her fans to register to vote.

Swift’s endorsement resulted in a surge of interest, with hundreds of thousands of fans visiting the Vote.gov link she provided. This marked a significant moment in her advocacy, as it ended months of speculation regarding her political views ahead of the upcoming election.

Throughout her career, Swift has built a devoted fanbase that eagerly follows her every move. Whether or not she sings directly about politics, it’s clear that she understands the power of her platform. As she continues to evolve as an artist and advocate, her music reflects a deepened awareness of societal issues, resonating with a broader audience.

Swift’s journey from a young artist focused on personal connections to a politically engaged musician illustrates the transformative power of both music and activism. As she navigates this new chapter, her ability to influence and inspire remains undiminished, proving that she is not only a musical icon but also a voice for change in the modern world.