Taylor Swift Nods to Music Ownership Issues With Super-Charged 2019 AMAs Performance
Taylor Swift delivered a jaw-dropping medley performance at the 2019 American Music Awards on Sunday (Nov. 24).
The pop star first hit the stage alongside a young dancer, making a political statement by beginning with her feminist anthem, "The Man."
Initially wearing a white shirt featuring black writing, Swift made a noticeable nod to the albums she no longer owns the master rights to (Taylor Swift, Fearless, Speak Now, Red, 1989, Reputation) due to the acquisition of her old label, Big Machine, by Scooter Braun. The record label initially refused to let her perform any of the songs from her first six albums for her AMAs medley performance.
She then broke into her chart-topping hit, "Love Story," while ripping off her shirt to unveil a gold mini-dress. She also sang an alternate version of "I Knew You Were Trouble" with dark undertones and an electronic beat. The 29-year-old flawlessly transitioned to "Blank Space," a song which she previously performed at the 2014 AMAs.
Swift then brought former tour-mate, Camila Cabello, as well as Halsey to perform "Shake It Off." The trio performed a choreographed dance number while cheerleaders performed stunts in the background.
She then went to a golden piano covered in pink petals and all six of her album titles written on it. She donned a flowing pink cape and performed the ballad version of "Lover" while dancers performed.
Swift received the first-ever AMAs Artist of the Decade award tonight. Along with the Artist of the Decade award, Swift was also nominated for Artist of the Year, Favorite Music Video for "You Need To Calm Down," Favorite Female Artist- Pop/Rock, Favorite Album- Pop/Rock for Lover and Favorite Artist Adult/Contemporary.
The 2019 American Music Awards was hosted by Ciara and broadcast live from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.