One Swiftie is Ready For It… It Being Taylor Takes Toronto
Arib Hassam, Staff Writer
November 16, 2024, the day I’ve been anticipating for years. For me, it’s not just another concert, it’s my first time seeing Taylor Swift live. This isn’t simply about the music for me but about finally witnessing the artist who has had such a deep impact on my life.
My Swiftie journey started in 2017, when Reputation dropped. Hearing the lyrics “The old Taylor can’t come to the phone right now. Why? Because she’s dead,” was nothing short of a cultural reset. From that moment, I was hooked. The Reputation era became my high school soundtrack, with songs that felt like anthems for the highs and lows of teenage life. Tracks like “Ready For It…?” became personal hype songs, filling me with energy when I needed a confidence boost. Even today, that song revives me when I’m feeling low on energy or drive.
However, Taylor’s influence goes beyond the music. I admire her resilience, her courage, and the way she has reclaimed her power—especially through her re-recordings. It’s incredibly inspiring to see her stand up and take back ownership of her art. Watching her face challenges in the public eye with such strength has taught me about confidence and fighting for what matters.
I’m attending the concert with my friend Darian Trabold, and that feels especially fitting. We met in our first year at St. Mike’s, and one of the things that brought us together was our shared love for Taylor. Knowing that I’ll get to experience this monumental night with a fellow Swiftie and close friend makes it even better. We’ve texted back and forth about our concert outfits, our favorite songs, and even what surprise songs we are hoping for; Having someone to share the hype and anticipation with is a reminder of how Taylor’s music has fostered real and genuine connections in my life.
For my concert outfit, I knew I wanted something that would embody the Reputation era. I wear tank tops a lot, and when I found one with a black snakeskin pattern, it felt perfect—edgy, fierce, and very Reputation. I’ll also be making friendship bracelets to trade with other fans, continuing a beloved Swiftie tradition.
In the weeks leading up to the concert, Toronto has been buzzing with excitement. Streets are being renamed for Taylor, like “Taylor Swift Way,” and Swifties from all over are set to fill the Rogers Centre for six nights, turning it into a sea of lights, laughter, and shared passion. I’ve also been preparing by attending Taylor-inspired drag shows by Tay Bobo, a local Taylor Swift impersonator and drag queen. It’s been incredible seeing someone capture Taylor’s energy and charisma on stage, getting me even more excited for the real thing.
For those who don’t know, Taylor usually plays the same 44 songs every night, in the same order, except for a couple acoustic “surprise songs”. While every song on the setlist is bound to be special, I’m especially hoping for some Reputation deep cuts as surprise songs. Specifically, “So It Goes” and “New Years Day” are at the top of my wish list as surprise songs. I’m also hoping we get to see “Getaway Car” live. “Getaway Car” has become a fan-favorite for a reason; it’s a song that brings out the rebellious spirit of Reputation, and I can already picture myself singing along with thousands of other fans. Meanwhile, “New Year’s Day,” is a quieter, more introspective track that holds a special place in my heart. I know hearing these songs live will feel like reliving some of my most meaningful memories.
Taylor’s journey and her re-recordings have resonated with me deeply. Watching her reclaim ownership of her music—saying she wouldn’t let anyone take control of her life’s work—is such a powerful example of standing up for what you believe in. Her strength in handling these challenges, along with her ability to be transparent with her fans, has shown me what it means to have confidence in yourself and in your art. She didn’t just create music with her re-recordings, but she took back control of her narrative and inspired her fans to fight for what matters to them.
As I get ready for the concert, I can’t ignore the bittersweet feeling of attending one of Taylor’s final shows on this tour. Toronto will be her second last stop, with six shows here before three final shows in Vancouver, and then it’s over. After such a long journey, this tour is coming to an end, and being part of that last wave of performances feels surreal. The thought of standing there in the Rogers Centre as the tour wraps up is a reminder that this night is historic—not just for me, but for all Swifties.
At the end of the night, I know I’ll take home memories that will last a lifetime. One keepsake I’m especially excited about is the light-up bracelet each fan receives, synced to the music and lighting up the crowd in waves. I plan to keep it forever as a memento of my first Taylor Swift concert. For me, the bracelet is it’s a piece of history, a symbol of a night I’ll never forget, and a reminder of the artist who has meant so much to me.
Attending this concert is a full-circle moment, a celebration of Taylor’s music and the mark it’s left on my life. Her songs have been there through the highs, lows, and everything in between, empowering me, comforting me, and inspiring me. Sharing this night with Darian, and thousands of other fans, reminds me that Taylor’s music connects us all, no matter where we come from or what we’ve been through.
As November 16th approaches, I’m counting down the days with overwhelming excitement, knowing that this concert will be a night to remember. From the first note to the final bow, I’ll be soaking in every moment, every lyric, and every light, and while the concert may end, the energy, the memories, and the songs will stay with me, louder than ever, long after the last note fades.
Photo Credit: Arib Hassam
