Concert Review: Taylor Swift takes you on a journey through the Eras Tour
Review & Photos by Yising Kao
Check out photos from the show!
Nashville is the city where Taylor Swift got discovered and started her legendary career. My friend Alyssa and I have been planning to visit Nashville because it was going to be her “hometown” show (behind PA) and we knew it was going to be special. The Nissan stadium was packed with thousands of Swifties, dressed up in the most creative outfits that Taylor has worn before, along with original amazing outfits. It was raining lightly on and off, but nothing would stop people from gathering for the show. First, Gracie Abrams performed – I’m a huge fan of hers and it was incredible to see her open for one of her favorite artists. Next, Phoebe Bridgers went on and I really liked her captivating visuals on the big screens. Both artists were the perfect fit as openers for the Eras Tour, and I admire how Taylor always includes women as her openers for tours.
The moment we’ve been waiting for arrived – a gigantic clock appeared on the stage screen counting down to when Taylor would come on stage. My heart was racing as the dancers came out carrying massive fans on their backs flowing in the wind. I got chills hearing “It’s been a long time coming” along with layers of Taylor’s voice speaking her album titles in the intro in an echoing tune. Suddenly, she popped out from under the fans and the stage transformed into the Lover era full of pastel pink, blue, and purple lights and stunning visuals. “Cruel Summer” was the best song opener because we’ve been waiting so long to hear it at Lover Fest which unfortunately got canceled. Years later, it’s still a powerful anthem and the crowd was cheering and singing along so loud – I couldn’t help but tear up. I admire the way that Taylor’s production was meaningful to each era, with outfits that matched so well. You could tell she was having the best time on stage running around to each section and interacting with the audience. My favorite song is “Enchanted” so my friend and I sang our hearts out during her performance – it was magical and Taylor wore a princess gown. The backup dancers were captivating and acted out each set with high energy and passion, making every performance seem like a Broadway show.
One of my favorite parts of Taylor’s set is when she picks two surprise songs to play. Before the show, some of my song predictions included “Sparks Fly” and “Teardrops on My Guitar,” which she ended up playing, so I was ecstatic! But not only did she play surprise songs, when she came to the front of the stage, she said she had something planned for us. At this point, everyone was going wild – she told us to look at the screen and suddenly “Speak Now (Taylor’s Version) out July 7th” appeared with a photo of the album cover! My friend and I were screaming so loud – Speak Now is my favorite album and I’m beyond excited to listen to it. Taylor immediately starting performing “Sparks Fly” afterwards, starting with the lyrics “Drop everything now, meet me in the pouring rain.” It was so fun and special to sing that while it was actually raining throughout the night.
The whole show was phenomenal! With a 3 hour setlist, beautiful visuals and transitions, fun choreography and outfit changes, no other artist is doing it like Taylor Swift. Taylor’s concerts create a unique world where I just forget about everything else and focus on her music. She took everyone on a journey throughout her eras – What I love about this tour is that it gives people a chance to experience her tours that they’ve never been to. When I was younger, I didn’t get to attend tours such as the Speak Now tour, so getting to hear songs from those specific eras meant a lot. Taylor is a huge inspiration to me and her dedication to putting on the best show for her fans every night of the tour is incredibly powerful. The Eras Tour is truly the most iconic tour of our generation and I’m already ecstatic to see her next time!
Pre-order Speak Now (Taylor’s Version) https://www.taylorswift.com/