Taylor Swift announced the release date of her 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, during a rare appearance on boyfriend Travis Kelce’s New Heights podcast. The pop icon also unveiled the cover art for the highly anticipated project.
Swift’s Big Announcement
On Wednesday, Aug. 13, the megastar revealed that her new album will drop on Friday, Oct. 3. She shared the news via Instagram, along with the striking cover art.
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In the image, the “Fortnight” singer wears a bedazzled one-piece with cut-outs as she lounges in water, resting her hand on her head. Her signature red lip and smoky eye makeup complete the glamorous look.
“And, baby, that’s show business for you. New album The Life of a Showgirl. Out October 3,” she captioned the post.
The album is produced by Swift, Max Martin, and Shellback, promising a dazzling new era.
Tracklist & Special Features
Swift also released the tracklist, revealing a collaboration with Sabrina Carpenter on the title track. Other songs include:
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“Elizabeth Taylor”
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“Ruin the Friendship”
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“Honey”
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“Actually Romantic”
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“CANCELLED!”
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“Eldest Daughter”
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“Father Figure”
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“Opalite”
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“The Fate of Ophelia”
How the Announcement Unfolded
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Swift first teased the album in an Instagram video on the New Heights podcast, hosted by Travis and Jason Kelce, at 12:12 a.m. ET on Tuesday, Aug. 12.
In the clip, Swift asks, “Can I show you something?”
Jason, 37, responds, “Okay. What do we got? We got a briefcase? Mint green, with T.S. on it.”
When asked what’s inside, Swift replies, “This is my brand new album, The Life of a Showgirl.”
Travis, 35, excitedly cheers, “TS 12!”
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At the time, the actual album cover was kept secret, but Swift’s website soon featured blurred mint green and orange artwork, with vinyl, cassette, and CD pre-orders available.
Easter Eggs & Hidden Clues
Fans spotted orange-covered books in the background of the video, featuring works by artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat, Marc Chagall, and Ruth Asawa.
Earlier, Swift’s website had a glittery orange countdown with mint green lettering, expiring at 12:12 a.m. ET, hinting at the announcement.
Sweet Moment with Travis Kelce
During the podcast clip, Swift compliments Travis’ blue sweatshirt, saying, “That’s such a nice color on you.”
He playfully responds, “Yes, I know. It’s the color of your eyes, sweetie. It’s why we match so well.”
Swift then jokes, “We’re about to do a f—ing podcast!”
What’s Next?
Swift’s last album, The Tortured Poets Department, dropped in 2024, making this new project a highly awaited follow-up. With glamorous visuals, star-studded collaborations, and her signature storytelling, The Life of a Showgirl is set to be another chart-topping masterpiece.
