Taylor Swift has kept her upcoming album The Life of a Showgirl under strict secrecy. Only five people in her trusted circle have heard the full record so far. Even some who worked on the project have not been given full access. Swift wants to protect the freshness of her music for her fans before the release on October 3. The project also shows a clear shift in sound from her previous album The Tortured Poets Department.
Travis Kelce
Swift’s boyfriend Travis Kelce confirmed on his New Heights podcast that he heard the entire record. He praised the album, saying, “I’ve been fortunate enough to hear every single song on here, so I know they’re all 12 bangers.” He added that the music feels more upbeat and fun, calling it a complete 180 from her earlier songs on The Tortured Poets Department.
Read More: Why Ed Sheeran Thinks His £200,000 Aston Martin DB9 Was a Huge Mistake?
Tree Paine
Tree Paine, Swift’s longtime publicist, is also one of the five people with full access. Paine has been one of the most trusted figures in Swift’s career, and her inclusion in the small circle underlines the secrecy behind the project.
Max Martin
Legendary producer Max Martin, who has worked with Swift on several hits, is one of the key collaborators on The Life of a Showgirl. He recorded the project with her in Sweden. Martin has long been known for crafting Swift’s biggest pop anthems, and his role hints at the album’s fun and upbeat sound.
Shellback
Producer Shellback, another longtime collaborator, also heard the complete album. He joined Martin in Sweden as part of the core team. Both producers were subject to strict NDAs and vetting to prevent any leaks.
Studio Engineer
The fifth person with full access is an unnamed studio engineer. According to reports, everyone involved in the project, from writers to interns, had to go through strict vetting. They signed ironclad NDAs and were even barred from discussing their work with family or friends.
Read More: Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan Reunite for Priyadarshan’s Haiwaan; Shriya Pilgaonkar Joins Cast
Taylor Swift’s Vision
Swift herself described The Life of a Showgirl as more vibrant than her last record. On New Heights, she said, “Life is more upbeat.” She explained her aim was to create “melodies that were so infectious that you’re almost angry at it, and lyrics that are just as vivid, but crisp and focused and completely intentional.” With only five people hearing it so far, fans are eagerly waiting for October 3.
