Taylor Swift referenced emo-pop band The Starting Line in her new album, leading the band to publicly thank her for the mention. The Starting Line expressed gratitude for being name-checked in the song “The Black Dog,” which is believed to be a nod to Taylor’s ex Matty Healy covering their song “The Best of Me.” The band appreciated the recognition and described it as an honor, emphasizing their respect and love for Taylor. Additionally, The Starting Line are set to perform their album “Say It Like You Mean It” in full at upcoming festivals, hinting at the possibility of new music following their 2016 EP release produced by Will Yip.
The Starting Line Responds to Taylor Swift’s Namedrop
So, you know how Taylor Swift dropped her epic two-hour double album, The Tortured Poets Department, and it’s been making waves in the music industry? Well, one of the standout moments on the album is when she name-dropped emo-pop veterans The Starting Line on the track “The Black Dog.” Turns out, it was a nod to Taylor’s ex, Matty Healy of The 1975, covering The Starting Line’s “The Best of Me.” Talk about a musical crossover!
The Starting Line themselves caught wind of this shoutout from Taylor Swift, and they had the sweetest response. In an open letter to Taylor, the band expressed their gratitude, saying, “Dear Taylor, We heard the song, thank you for name-checking our band. We feel flattered and humbled by the reverberations of love that have come back to us as a result. It’s an honor to have TSL memorialized on such a lovely song. You didn’t have to do that, but you did, and we appreciate it wholeheartedly. Respect! Love, The Starting Line.” How cool is that?
The Starting Line’s Musical Legacy
For those who may not be familiar, The Starting Line is a prominent figure in the emo-pop music scene. Their track “The Best of Me” from the album Say It Like You Mean It (2002) is often hailed as one of the best pop-punk hits of its time. The band’s discography includes the With Hopes of Starting Over EP (2001), Direction (2007), and the Will Yip-produced Anyways EP (2016).
Despite taking a hiatus after Direction, The Starting Line has been hinting at new music on the horizon. Fans were delighted when the band premiered a new song at a live performance, sparking anticipation for what’s to come. The Starting Line’s enduring influence in the music world is evident, and their dedicated fanbase eagerly awaits their next musical chapter.
The Starting Line’s Live Performances and Festivals
If you’re a die-hard fan of The Starting Line, you’ll be thrilled to know that the band is set to perform Say It Like You Mean It in its entirety at the upcoming When We Were Young festival. This special performance promises to be a nostalgic trip down memory lane for fans who have been following the band since their early days.
Additionally, The Starting Line will be gracing the stage at the Lake Tahoe edition of the Is For Lovers festivals, further solidifying their presence in the live music circuit. The band’s electrifying performances and timeless hits continue to captivate audiences, showcasing their enduring appeal and musical prowess.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for The Starting Line
As fans eagerly await new music from The Starting Line, the band’s recent interactions with Taylor Swift have sparked renewed interest in their discography. With a legacy that spans over two decades, The Starting Line remains a beloved fixture in the emo-pop genre, with a dedicated fanbase that spans generations.
As they gear up for upcoming performances and potential new releases, The Starting Line’s impact on the music industry shows no signs of waning. With a nod from Taylor Swift and a promising future ahead, the band continues to carve out their place in music history, solidifying their status as icons in the emo-pop landscape. Stay tuned for more updates from The Starting Line as they embark on the next chapter of their musical journey.
