In the article “How Taylor Swift Became the Most Powerful Person in Tech,” the author explores how the pop star’s influence extends far beyond the music industry. The article highlights Swift’s ability to get major business leaders, including Apple’s Eddy Cue, Spotify’s Daniel Ek, and even Elon Musk, to cater to her desires. From convincing Apple to change its royalty payment policy to bringing her music back to Spotify, Swift has shown her prowess in shaping the tech world. The article also discusses the unconventional distribution arrangement for her concert film, which showcases her willingness to challenge traditional Hollywood studios. Overall, the article demonstrates how Taylor Swift has become a force to be reckoned with in the tech industry.
How Taylor Swift Became the Most Powerful Person in Tech
Taylor Swift, the American pop star, has demonstrated her immense power and influence in the tech industry by successfully maneuvering some of the biggest players in the field. From Apple’s Eddy Cue to Spotify CEO Daniel Ek and even Elon Musk, owner of X/Twitter, Swift’s impact has been felt across various platforms. Additionally, her recent collaboration with AMC for the distribution of her concert film, “The Eras Tour,” further solidifies her position as a formidable force in the tech world.
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Apple’s Eddy Cue, senior vice president of services
One of the most significant demonstrations of Swift’s power came in June 2015, when she penned an open letter to Apple on her Tumblr page. In the letter, Swift criticized the company’s decision not to pay artists, writers, and producers during the three-month free trial period of their newly launched Apple Music subscription service. Swift’s open letter, titled “To Apple, Love Taylor,” caught the attention of Apple’s senior vice president of services, Eddy Cue, who promptly responded on Twitter, promising that artists would be paid royalties from day one. This swift response from Apple, driven by Swift’s influence, highlighted her ability to effect change even within the largest and most profitable tech companies.
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Spotify CEO Daniel Ek
Swift’s impact on the music streaming giant Spotify was equally significant. In 2014, Swift decided to remove her entire catalog from Spotify due to concerns over the low royalties the platform paid to artists. This move sent shockwaves through the music industry and prompted a reassessment of royalty structures. Swift’s absence from Spotify lasted until June 2017, when she finally made her return. Prior to the platform’s highly anticipated direct listing on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), Spotify CEO Daniel Ek admitted to making multiple efforts to win back Swift. His admission demonstrated the extent to which Swift’s decision to remove her catalog from Spotify had impacted the company. Furthermore, Swift’s subsequent release of her music video for “Delicate” exclusively on Spotify just days before the company’s debut on the NYSE highlighted her influence in shaping the narrative around the streaming service.
Elon Musk, owner of X/Twitter
Even the wealthiest and most powerful individuals can’t escape the influence of Taylor Swift. Elon Musk, owner of X/Twitter, took to the platform to offer Swift some unsolicited advice. When Swift revealed the back covers for her upcoming album on X, Musk suggested that she post music or concert videos directly on the platform. However, Swift chose not to engage with Musk’s recommendation, indicating that she holds the power to decide when and how she interacts with influential figures in the tech world. This exchange exemplifies the dynamics of power in the industry, where even someone as powerful as Musk is dependent on Swift’s endorsement and engagement.
AMC Takes Swift’s Deal for The Eras Tour Film
Swift’s collaboration with AMC for the distribution of her concert film, “The Eras Tour,” showcases her ability to strike unconventional deals and make her mark in unexpected ways. Hollywood studios initially expressed interest in distributing the film but wanted to delay its release until 2025. Swift, however, approached AMC directly and struck a deal to distribute the film through the theater chain. This unconventional distribution method raised eyebrows, as AMC potentially risked its relationship with Hollywood studios. Nonetheless, the gamble paid off, with the film breaking AMC’s U.S. record for highest ticket sales in a single day. This success demonstrates Swift’s influence not only within the tech industry but also in traditional entertainment sectors.
In conclusion, Taylor Swift’s status as the most powerful person in tech is undoubtedly well-deserved. Her ability to effect change within tech giants like Apple and Spotify, her subtle yet profound impact on influential figures like Elon Musk, and her success in unconventional collaborations with entities like AMC all demonstrate her unwavering influence. As Swift continues to navigate the tech industry, it is clear that her power will only grow, further solidifying her position as a force to be reckoned with in the tech world.
