Taylor Swift’s Ritual Before Every New Era

Taylor Swift’s goodbye: Listen to her entire previous album before a new one—learn about this emotional tradition.

The Ritual of Saying Goodbye to a Past

Taylor Swift explained that whenever she releases a new album, which marks the beginning of a new musical era, she listens to her entire previous album the day before its release.

This time, she said goodbye to The Tortured Poets Department in the same vein and then welcomed The Life of a Showgirl.

This approach packs both a sense of anxiety and legacy—closing down old memories and preparing herself for a new chapter.

Revelation and Emotion with Fallon

Taylor shared this tradition while speaking with Jimmy Fallon on The Tonight Show.

Fallon said it was new to her, and Taylor readily explained, “I do this every time.”

This small ritual shows how artists cherish the emotional history of their work and how they can feel a sense of belonging with a new album.

Why Tortured Poets Department’s Goodbye Is Special

The Tortured Poets Department came out in April 2024, while Taylor was in the midst of the Eras Tour.

She explained that she was feeling “miserable” while writing it, and happy at the time of its release—so this record was a different kind of art for her.

Saying goodbye to the album may bring up old feelings, but the place her life is in now is different from when it was recorded.

The Life of a Showgirl

The Life of a Showgirl’s new look and sound are completely different from TTPD—glitter, beading, feathers, and a large, stage-show-like costume.

Taylor, on Instagram, credited the album to her mentors and friends Max and Shellback, saying it felt like a self-portrait. She also invited fans to see behind the scenes.

An Artist’s Relationship with Their Past Art

Taylor says you can be proud of your work, but also find yourself disconnected from the person who created it.

This is natural for musicians—old works are part of your identity, but you move forward and create new experiences.

Taylor’s tradition beautifully captures this transition.

Closing Notes

The Life of a Showgirl is now available on streaming, and Taylor’s approach illustrates how an artist lovingly closes old feelings and embraces new excitement.