By: Teresa Gong

Taylor Swift’s Eras tour has garnered a lot of attention and media coverage due to her popularity, her business acumen, and her ability to create buzz within the music industry and beyond. The tour’s massive ticket sales and the devotion of her fanbase, so-called Swifties, have contributed to its overwhelming success.

The tour compares to historic phenomena like Beatlemania and the dominance of artists like Michael Jackson and Madonna in the 1980s. Swift’s tour has been estimated to generate around $14 million in ticket sales per night, and could exceed $1.4 billion in total sales by the end of the full world tour.

“It’s a pretty amazing feat,” bandleader Herb Alpert, 88, said in a phone interview. “With the way radio is these days, and the way music is distributed, with streaming, I didn’t think anyone in this era could do it.”

Swift’s ability to create a strong brand, engage with her fanbase, and leverage online platforms has contributed to her success. The tour has also attracted media attention for its star-studded guest appearances, surprising song choices, and elaborate stage production.

Swift’s influence and loyal fanbase have kept much of the press coverage positive, focusing on her achievements and the unique experiences her concerts offer. The tour is not only a music event but also a cultural phenomenon. Fans travel across the country to attend multiple shows and connect with fellow Swifties.

Swift’s career evolution, including the recent re-recordings of her early albums, has helped reignite interest in her music. Her success stands out even among other major touring artists like Beyoncé, Bruce Springsteen, and Drake.

“She is the best C.E.O., and best chief marketing officer, in the history of music,” said Nathan Hubbard, who co-hosts a Swift podcast. “She is following people like Bono, Jay-Z and Madonna, who were acutely aware of their brands. But of all of them, Taylor is the first one to be natively online.”