If Taylor Swift Was a Man, She’d Be the Man
Alternative Title
Abstract
Taylor Swift has established herself as one of the most popular artists in history, but her talent has been called into question time and time again. Much of this criticism comes from her unapologetic femininity and ability to write music that girls and women connect with. Because of this, she is often viewed as less “serious” than other artists. Swift may be the biggest example of this treatment, but she is one of many female artists whose work has been dismissed and viewed as less impressive or important. While groups like the Beatles also appealed most to girls and young women early in their career, the members were able to break away from the “unserious” label and establish themselves as legends of the music industry. Now, at the height of Swift’s career success, the attention is not focused primarily on her music or record-breaking world tour. Her relationship with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce and attendance of his games this season has overshadowed her success as an artist and angered NFL fans who view her as a “distraction” from the games. The message from these football fans is that Swift,
an artist who creates art that connects most with girls and young women, does not belong in the historically masculine space that is the NFL. This Honors Day presentation will look at the way that women and the art they produce are dismissed and viewed as inherently less “serious.” This presentation will discuss the harmful implications this creates for girls and young women who admire female artists.