Pop star as economic influencer: experts contextualize Taylor Swift’s album drop
Pop star Taylor Swift’s reputation as a worldwide economic driver has potential to reach another milestone as she drops a new double album, “The Tortured Poets Department.” Even before the midnight release, reported leaks of excerpts from the songs galvanized social media, while murals celebrating the impending release appeared in Chicago and Nashville.
Virginia Tech economic expert Jadrian Wooten can discuss Swift’s impact on business and in fandom communities. “Taylor Swift's album drop, coupled with her upcoming European tour, underscores her significant influence on the ‘experience economy,’ where live concerts and fan interactions play an important role,” he said. “As she continues to engage fans through her music and shows, she further solidifies her position as a key player in shaping our spending habits within the entertainment industry.”
Virginia Tech voice expert Ariana Wyatt shares insights into Swift’s wide appeal. “Taylor Swift's first album since 2022 has inspired countless origin theories online,” she said “Regardless of the content, Swift's lyrics and music are always inspired by her personal story and resonate with millions of people. Swift's musical style continues to evolve and change, and this album is the next step in her artistic journey.”
About Wooten
Jadrian Wooten is collegiate associate professor with the Virginia Tech Department of Economics, part of the Virginia Tech College of Science, and is the author of “Parks and Recreation and Economics.” Wooten has been featured in USA Today, WJLA ABC 7 Washington, D.C., Scripps News, and NBC News, among scores of other media outlets. Read more about him here.
About Wyatt
Ariana Wyatt, associate dean for outreach and engagement at Virginia Tech’s College of Architecture, Arts, and Design, is a graduate of Juilliard Opera Center who has performed in operas and concert halls throughout the country. She teaches voice for the college’s School of Performing Arts. Read more about her here.
Schedule an interview
To schedule an interview, contact Mike Allen in the media relations office at mike.allen@vt.edu or 540.400.1700.
