When it comes to musical icon Taylor Swift, most fans think they know all there is to know about her. After all, she has been in the spotlight since her teens, crafting hit after hit and making headlines with her personal life just as much as her music. But even the most devoted Swifties might be surprised by some of the lesser-known details about this pop icon. Here are five fun facts about Taylor Swift that you probably did not know before.
Swift Was Named After James Taylor
It might seem fitting that someone as musically talented as Taylor Swift would be named after another music legend. But did you know that her name was inspired by none other than the iconic singer-songwriter James Taylor?
However, this choice seems prophetic now, given that she would go on to become one of the biggest names in the music industry herself.
In fact, James Taylor and Taylor Swift have even performed together, making the connection between their names all the more special. Taylor has spoken fondly of the influence that James Taylor’s music had on her parents and, by extension, on her own musical journey.
Swift’s First CD Was by LeAnn Rimes
We all remember our first CD, but not everyone’s first purchase turns out to be as fateful as Taylor Swift’s. When she was just six years old, Taylor Swift bought her first CD - an album by LeAnn Rimes. This purchase was more than just a child’s curiosity. It marked the beginning of Taylor’s deep love for country music, which would later become the foundation of her career.
LeAnn Rimes was a young country star at the time, and her music resonated with Swift, planting the seeds for her own musical aspirations. It is fascinating to think that a simple purchase at a young age could influence the direction of Swift’s future so profoundly.
“Tim McGraw” Was Written in 15 Minutes
One of Taylor Swift’s breakout hits was “Tim McGraw.” A song that introduced her to the world as a gifted songwriter. But did you know that this iconic track was written in just 15 minutes? Swift co-wrote the song with Liz Rose, a frequent collaborator during her early years. The two sat down together, and in a mere quarter of an hour, they penned what would become one of her most memorable songs.
This quick burst of creativity is a testament to Swift’s natural songwriting talent. "Tim McGraw" was a deeply personal song for Swift, reflecting her emotions at the time.
Her Grandmother Was an Opera Singer
Talent often runs in the family, and this is certainly true for Taylor Swift. Her grandmother, Marjorie Finlay, was an accomplished opera singer who performed across the United States and in Puerto Rico. Marjorie’s musical talent was a significant influence on young Taylor, who grew up listening to her grandmother sing and share stories from her career.
Swift has often mentioned her grandmother in interviews, citing her as one of her earliest musical inspirations. Marjorie’s influence is evident in the way Swift approaches her music - with a deep respect for storytelling and vocal performance.
In fact, Swift even wrote a song called “Marjorie” on her album "Evermore." A touching tribute to her grandmother’s legacy.
"Lover" Was Almost Titled "Daylight"
Taylor Swift is known for her meticulous attention to detail, especially when it comes to naming her albums. One of the least-known fun facts about Taylor Swift is that her 2019 album “Lover” was almost called “Daylight.” The title "Daylight" was inspired by the final track on the album, which explores themes of hope, love, and new beginnings.
Swift eventually decided that “Lover” was a more fitting title for the album as a whole, but "Daylight" still holds a special place in the project.