CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – JUNE 02: EDITORIAL USE ONLY. Taylor Swift performs onstage during “Taylor Swift … [+]
Taylor Swift is currently captivating audiences around the world with her highly anticipated The Eras Tour. The trek is not only breaking records in terms of box office receipts, but also leaving millions of fans ecstatic with the experience of a lifetime.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the tour is Swift’s inclusion of surprise songs in her setlist, which add a sense of excitement and anticipation to each show. The superstar saves a segment of each concert for two tracks that aren’t played during any other concert on the run. Fans look forward to this section, as no one knows what will be featured.
While it may appear to be a mere form of entertainment, this ingenious marketing move is just another example of Swift’s shrewdness and foresight as a superstar. Here are six reasons why Swift’s decision to play surprise songs and change up her setlist at every show is a stroke of genius.
Making Fans Happy
First and foremost, the inclusion of surprise songs in Swift’s tour brings immeasurable joy to her fans. The singer has an extensive discography, and her ability to surprise her audience with unexpected tracks resonates deeply with her dedicated followers. By incorporating two surprise songs in the ninth act of each performance, Swift ensures that her fans have an unforgettable experience, and one they can talk about for years to come.
Keeping Herself Interested
The Eras Tour spans dozens shows, and without the element of surprise, Swift’s performances might become monotonous for her. Even if they’re new or her favorites, playing the same tracks over and over can become dull for anyone. By changing up her setlist and incorporating surprise songs, Swift keeps her own interest alive and injects renewed energy into her performances.
Reminding Non-Super Fans of Lesser-Known Gems
While die-hard Swift fans are well-versed in her entire discography, not every attendee of her concerts may be as familiar with her lesser-known tracks. By surprising the audience with unexpected songs, Swift reminds casual listeners and non-super fans about these hidden gems in her repertoire. This reintroduction to some of her older cuts, which may not have achieved mainstream success, sparks interest and curiosity among the crowd and those who are watching remotely via social media.
Fueling Social Chatter
Swift’s surprise song choices generate a flurry of social media activity after each show. With thousands of mentions discussing which tunes she performed, the buzz surrounding the concert extends far beyond the venue walls. This ongoing social chatter ensures that Swift and her tour remain at the forefront of public conversation.
Garnering Media Coverage
In addition to the social media buzz, Swift’s surprise song selections attract significant media coverage. Journalists and entertainment outlets eagerly report on the tunes she performs, particularly if a special guest joins her on stage, which has now happened several times throughout the run. The media attention surrounding each show not only amplifies the excitement but also helps to sustain public interest in Swift and her music.
Driving Streaming Numbers
The combination of social media attention and media coverage provides an additional benefit for Swift: increased streaming numbers. When fans read about the surprise songs or catch glimpses of the performances online, they are enticed to revisit or discover these tracks on streaming platforms. This surge in streaming activity translates into financial success for Swift, further enhancing her already substantial bank account.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/hughmcintyre/2023/06/09/the-genius-behind-taylor-swifts-surprise-songs-on-the-eras-tour/