Taylor Swift has consistently paid homage to classic rock legends throughout her career. From her early days as a country singer to her current status as a pop superstar, Swift has never shied away from her love of rock music. Here are 15 times she honored classic rock artists:
Taylor Swift: A True Champion of Classic Rock
Taylor Swift is an iconic figure in the music industry, known for her chart-topping hits and captivating performances. Beyond her own success, Swift has consistently demonstrated her appreciation and respect for classic rock artists, paying tribute to their music and legacy in various ways. This commentary explores 15 instances where Swift honored classic rock legends, showcasing her deep admiration for their work.
1. Swift Joins the Kiss Army (2009)
In 2009, before becoming a pop sensation, Swift opened for Keith Urban and surprised the audience by joining his band onstage dressed in full Kiss outfits. She chose Ace Frehley’s Spaceman look, paying homage to the iconic rock band.
2. Swift Welcomes Bryan Adams for ‘Summer of ’69’ (2018)
During a concert in Toronto, Swift brought out Canadian rock legend Bryan Adams to perform their duet of “Summer of ’69.” The crowd erupted in cheers as they witnessed these two generations of artists come together to deliver a memorable rendition of the classic song.
3. Taylor Honors Her Namesake (2011)
Swift’s middle name, Taylor, was inspired by singer-songwriter James Taylor. In 2011, she shared the stage with Taylor at Madison Square Garden, performing his hit song “Fire and Rain.” This heartfelt moment highlighted Swift’s admiration for her namesake and his timeless music.
4. McCartney Is a McSwiftie (2015)
At Saturday Night Live’s 40th-anniversary special, Swift and Paul McCartney took the stage to perform her song “Shake it Off” and the Beatles’ classic “I Saw Her Standing There.” This unlikely collaboration showcased Swift’s mutual respect and admiration for McCartney, a legendary figure in rock music.
5. Taylor and Jack and Diane (2011)
During her Speak Now tour, Swift performed a rendition of John Mellencamp’s “Jack & Diane” in Indianapolis, a city known for its love of the rock icon. She seamlessly transitioned into the Jackson 5’s “I Want You Back,” demonstrating her appreciation for diverse genres and eras of music.
6. Swift Doesn’t Miss a Thing (2015)
In Nashville, Swift invited rock legend Steven Tyler of Aerosmith to join her onstage for a performance of “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing.” The crowd went wild as these two powerhouse vocalists delivered a stunning rendition of the iconic rock ballad.
7. Swift Finds a Kindred Spirit in Stevie Nicks (2010)
At the 52nd Grammy Awards, Swift shared the stage with Fleetwood Mac’s Stevie Nicks, performing “Rhiannon” and her own hit “You Belong With Me.” This collaboration highlighted the connection between two generations of female singer-songwriters and their shared passion for storytelling through music.
8. Swift Joins the Stones, Jagger Returns the Favor (2013, 2015)
Swift joined the Rolling Stones for a performance of “As Tears Go By” during their 50th-anniversary tour. Years later, Mick Jagger surprised Swift during her Nashville concert by joining her for an electrifying rendition of “(I Can’t Get No Satisfaction).” These moments showcased their mutual respect and admiration.
9. Swift and Friends Jam on Clapton Classic (2009)
At Keith Urban’s All for the Hall benefit concert, Swift joined an all-star lineup to perform Eric Clapton’s “Lay Down Sally.” This performance highlighted Swift’s versatility and her ability to blend genres, seamlessly collaborating with rock legends.
10. Swift Celebrates ‘Brilliant’ Don Henley (2011)
In Dallas, Swift paid tribute to Don Henley of the Eagles by performing an acoustic rendition of his 1984 classic, “Boys of Summer.” She expressed her admiration for Henley’s songwriting and his ability to capture the essence of the American experience.
11. Swift Names ‘You’re so Vain’ the ‘Best Song That’s Ever Been Written’ (2013)
During her Red tour, Swift brought out Carly Simon to perform their duet of “You’re So Vain.” Swift’s admiration for Simon’s songwriting is evident, as she has referred to the song as “the best song that’s ever been written.”
12. Swift and Def Leppard on ‘CMT Crossroads’ (2008)
On the TV show CMT Crossroads, Swift collaborated with British rock legends Def Leppard, performing their hits “Photograph,” “Hysteria,” and “Pour Some Sugar On Me.” This unlikely pairing showcased Swift’s ability to transcend genres and connect with artists from different backgrounds.
13. Double Dose of New Jersey’s Finest (2011)
In New Jersey, Swift paid homage to two of the state’s beloved musicians, Bruce Springsteen and Bon Jovi, by performing “Dancing in the Dark” and “Livin’ on a Prayer.” This medley highlighted her appreciation for the Garden State’s rich musical heritage.
14. Swift Proves She’s an ‘American Girl’
Swift covered Tom Petty’s “American Girl” as part of a promotional collaboration with Rhapsody. She later performed the song on SiriusXM, expressing her admiration for Petty’s songwriting and his influence on her music.
15. Swift Inducts Carole King Into the Hall of Fame (2021)
At the 2021 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame ceremony, Swift inducted singer-songwriter Carole King, praising her as “the greatest songwriter of all time.” She delivered a moving rendition of “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow,” honoring King’s timeless music and her impact on generations of artists.
Wrapping Up
Taylor Swift’s admiration for classic rock artists is evident in her countless tributes and collaborations throughout her career. She has consistently used her platform to honor these legends, showcasing her deep appreciation for their music and their influence on her own artistry. Swift’s genuine love for classic rock shines through in her performances, interviews, and collaborations, proving that she is a true champion of this enduring genre.
FAQ’s
1. What are some instances where Taylor Swift has paid tribute to classic rock artists?
Taylor Swift has paid tribute to classic rock artists in many ways, including performing their songs in concert, collaborating with them on stage, and inducting them into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
2. Which classic rock artists has Taylor Swift collaborated with?
Taylor Swift has collaborated with a wide range of classic rock artists, including Keith Urban, Bryan Adams, Paul McCartney, Steven Tyler, Stevie Nicks, Mick Jagger, Eric Clapton, Don Henley, Carly Simon, Def Leppard, and Carole King.
3. What is Taylor Swift’s favorite classic rock song?
Taylor Swift has expressed admiration for many classic rock songs, but she has specifically mentioned Carly Simon’s “You’re So Vain” as the “best song that’s ever been written.”
4. How has Taylor Swift’s appreciation for classic rock influenced her own music?
Taylor Swift’s appreciation for classic rock has influenced her music in many ways, including her songwriting, her vocal style, and her stage presence. She has incorporated elements of classic rock into her own songs, and she has often cited classic rock artists as influences on her music.
5. What does Taylor Swift’s admiration for classic rock say about her as an artist?
Taylor Swift’s admiration for classic rock shows that she is a well-rounded artist who appreciates and respects the music of the past. It also shows that she is not afraid to take risks and experiment with different genres of music.
