Latest news with #Swift
The South African
15 minutes ago
- Entertainment
- The South African
Taylor Swift surprises fans with spontaneous performance
Taylor Swift electrified fans in Nashville this week with a surprise performance of her hit Shake It Off . The pop star took to the stage at the Brooklyn Bowl during the Tight Ends & Friends concert. This is an event that is part of the annual Tight End University (TEU) event. The crowd, already buzzing from the star-studded guest list, erupted as Swift made her is a three-day training camp for American football tight ends, co-hosted by Travis Kelce. Taylor Swift's appearance was no accident. She wanted to support Kelce, who has attended many of her shows. A source told the Daily Mail, 'She thought it would be fun to perform. It made sure eyeballs were firmly on the Tight End University that Travis holds very close to his heart, according to the Cosmopolitan. Travis was there at so many of her shows and even took part. She is now repaying the favour.' Kane Brown, the evening's host, introduced Swift as a 'really, really, really special guest.' The crowd's reaction was instant and deafening. Taylor Swift walked on stage, smiled, and asked, 'Theoretically, how loud can we get?' She then dedicated her performance to the tight ends. 'We would like to dedicate this to our favourite players who are going to play and these are the tight ends.' The energy in the room soared as she launched into Shake It Off . This performance marked Swift's first public show since she bought back her master recordings—a significant milestone in her career. It was a night of celebration, not just for American football fans, but for music lovers everywhere. For South African fans, Taylor Swift's gesture resonates. Many local artists, such as Tyla and Vusi Nova, are known for supporting their communities and giving back through impromptu performances and festival appearances. Swift's actions mirror this spirit, showing that even global stars value loyalty and community. The event also highlights the growing crossover between music and sport. With Swift's influence, TEU received global attention, and the story quickly trended on social media. Taylor Swift's surprise appearance was about showing up for someone she cares about and shining a spotlight on a cause close to his heart. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Time of India
11 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Teen charged in targeting Taylor Swift's Vienna concert as boyfriend Travis Kelce boosts her security mindset
A terror plot targeting Taylor Swift's Vienna shows in August 2024 was foiled (Getty Images) As Taylor Swift continues to dazzle fans around the globe on her record-breaking Eras Tour, shocking details have emerged about a foiled terror plot targeting her sold-out Vienna shows in August 2024. The suspected mastermind, a juvenile Syrian national identified only as Mohammad A., has now been formally charged in a Berlin court—reigniting debates across Europe about terrorism, youth radicalization, and concert safety. Meanwhile, Swift's partner, NFL star Travis Kelce , has reportedly stepped up his involvement in her security planning as a precautionary measure. Foiled Vienna attack shows growing risks for global music superstars According to German prosecutors, the teenage suspect faces charges of supporting a foreign terrorist group and helping plan the thwarted attack. Authorities say Mohammad A. embraced ISIS ideology as early as April 2024, translating bomb-making instructions from Arabic into German and establishing encrypted communications between Austrian operatives and the Islamic State. The Vienna dates—August 8-10, 2024—were swiftly canceled by Swift's team after intelligence operations uncovered the threat. The plot's discovery prompted tighter security across Swift's tour, especially in major European cities. Though she resumed shows in London, local law enforcement presence was visibly increased. For millions of Swifties, the event was a jarring reminder of how even pop culture can become a target in global conflicts. Travis Kelce stands by Taylor Swift amid rising concerns over safety While Taylor Swift has not made a direct public statement about the foiled plot, her boyfriend Travis Kelce has reportedly taken a more proactive role behind the scenes. A source close to the Chiefs tight end told Marca, 'Taylor Swift steps into a new world with Travis Kelce and doesn't seem to want to leave.' The quote suggests the bond between the two is stronger than ever, even as the challenges surrounding her fame become more complex. Swift and Kelce have been seen navigating their high-profile relationship with increasing confidence, but sources say this latest incident prompted deep discussions about personal safety, tour protocols, and long-term planning. Kelce, known for his commanding presence on the football field, is said to be encouraging Swift to remain vigilant while still connecting with fans in a meaningful way. With the trial now headed to a juvenile court in Berlin, legal experts note that the case could set a precedent. While Germany places a strong emphasis on rehabilitating young offenders, terrorism charges carry serious weight—even for minors. Authorities must also decide whether Mohammad A., who is currently not in custody, poses an ongoing threat. Also Read: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's NFL flex pose sparks political controversy over Donald Trump comparison Meanwhile, Swift's global tour continues, now under a more watchful eye. The Vienna scare serves as a stark reminder that fame, even when wrapped in glitter and music, doesn't shield one from the world's darker realities. Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
Time of India
13 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Rhode Island targets Taylor Swift with new tax bill — days after human remains found near her mansion where she hopes to raise family with Travis Kelce
Rhode Island 'Taylor Swift Tax' (Getty Images) Just as Taylor Swift was preparing to turn her $17 million Watch Hill mansion into a dream family home with Travis Kelce , Rhode Island lawmakers are considering introducing a new tax bill that could cost the global superstar a hefty annual sum. The proposal, unofficially dubbed the 'Taylor Swift Tax,' comes amid swirling headlines — including the grim discovery of human remains near her seaside property. ' Taylor Swift tax ' gains traction in Rhode Island: Here's what it means for high-end homeowners On May 14, 2024, remains were found along the shoreline in Watch Hill, not far from Swift's sprawling estate known as 'Holiday House.' On June 13, South Kingstown Police confirmed the remains were identified as 31-year-old Eric Wein of Massachusetts. While unrelated to Swift directly, the unsettling event cast a somber mood over a location the singer has often called her 'sanctuary.' Adding to the tension, a new bill introduced in Rhode Island's budget aims to impose a 'non-owner-occupied property tax' on luxury homes valued above $1 million that sit empty for more than half the year. Despite not being named directly, Swift has become the poster face of the bill, thanks to her high-profile presence in the state. The proposed law would charge homeowners $2.50 for every $500 of assessed value beyond the first million dollars, potentially costing Swift an additional $136,000 annually. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like New Container Houses Indonesia (Prices May Surprise You) Container House | Search Ads Search Now Undo Swift's Rhode Island mansion — the most expensive private residence in the state — was purchased in 2013 for $17.75 million. The colonial-style estate has become legendary for its star-studded Independence Day parties and was immortalized in her hit track 'The Last Great American Dynasty.' Today, the property is undergoing a $1.7 million renovation that includes a new bedroom suite, updated kitchen, and added guest space — all part of her plans to build a future with Kelce. Spanning over five acres with a 700-foot stretch of private beach, a pool house, and grand patios, the estate remains one of Swift's favorite escapes. She was last seen there in August 2024, unwinding with Kelce and friends after wrapping up the European leg of her Eras Tour. Yet, the so-called Taylor Swift Tax has sparked controversy. The Rhode Island Association of Realtors has voiced strong opposition, arguing the measure could hurt an already strained housing market. Critics worry that, while aimed at the wealthiest homeowners, the bill could ripple through the broader real estate ecosystem, making it harder for everyday buyers and sellers. If the legislation is signed by Governor Dan McKee, even the Ocean State's biggest pop star might face a financial 'cruel summer' — just not the one she wrote about. Also Read: Is Travis Kelce ready for Hollywood? Veteran actor Christopher McDonald thinks so after Chiefs star's 'Happy Gilmore 2' cameo Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
USA Today
16 hours ago
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Syrian teen charged in Germany over foiled Taylor Swift concert attack
A Syrian teen has been charged with helping to plan the foiled terrorist attack at a Taylor Swift concert in Vienna last summer, according to a statement by the prosecutor general. German authorities on June 27 identified the suspect as Mohammad A., saying he helped the intended attacker by translating Arabic instructions for making bombs and connecting him online with a member of the Islamic State militia. "Mohammad A. has adhered to the ideology of the terrorist organization Islamic State (IS) since April 2024 at the latest," a government statement said. "Between mid-July and August 2024, he was in contact with a young Austrian who was planning a bomb attack on a concert by singer Taylor Swift in Vienna." Swifties rallied in streets following concert cancellations Swift was set to perform three nights of the Eras Tour in the Austrian capital on Aug. 8-10, 2024. Her promoter, Barricuda Music, posted a cancellation message to social media on Aug. 7. Tickets were refunded and extra safety procedures were put in place for Swift's final shows in London, Miami, New Orleans, Indianapolis, Toronto and Vancouver. Police made multiple arrests over a suspected plot to attack a Swift concert in the Austrian capital's Ernst Happel Stadium, prompting the cancellation of all three of her shows there. The Vienna Federal Ministry of the Interior officials confirmed the arrest of two individuals "suspected of having planned attacks at major events." Swift acknowledged the terrorist threat in a statement following the conclusion of her European shows in August. "Having our Vienna shows cancelled was devastating," the singer wrote in a statement posted to her Instagram story. "The reason for the cancellations filled me with a new sense of fear, and a tremendous amount of guilt because so many people had planned on coming to those shows. But I was also so grateful to the authorities because thanks to them, we were grieving concerts and not lives." After the concerts were canceled, tens of thousands of fans -- already in the Austrian capital -- flooded the streets to sing Swift songs. "Going out to the streets of Vienna this morning was initially scary, but it was a great surprise to see Swifties gathering in the streets," Maria Luís Monteiro, 24, of Portugal told USA TODAY at the time. "The resilience and sense of community displayed was very inspiring and healing." Contributing: Reuters Follow Bryan West, the USA TODAY Network's Taylor Swift reporter, on Instagram, TikTok and X as @BryanWestTV.
Yahoo
16 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Taylor Swift performs live for the first time since reclaiming her masters at Nashville gig hosted by Travis Kelce
It's been a long time coming. Taylor Swift made a hotly anticipated return to the stage for the first time since buying back her masters and wrapping up her globally sold-out Eras Tour. The 14-time Grammy winner, 35, wowed the crowd with a rendition of 'Shake It Off' at the 'Tight Ends and Friends' concert hosted by Travis Kelce in Nashville, Tenn., Tuesday. The three-time Super Bowl champ founded the event as part of the training camp program 'Tight End University,' which he's holding in Music City this week. It appeared as though there were many Swifties at the soirée, as countless screaming fans couldn't contain their excitement during the 'Cruel Summer' singer's performance. 'We were up there, having some drinks and we were thinking 'How loud can this place get? Theoretically, how loud can the singing be in here?'' she hyped the crowd before revealing, 'We planned that three minutes ago.' Before stepping out on the stage at the Brooklyn Bowl, Sophia Scott, Graham Barham and Chase Rice performed while Swift enjoyed the evening in the VIP suite. Their performances were followed by Jordan Davis and Luke Combs. As Kane Brown was approaching the end of his set, Swift walked out and grabbed Rice's acoustic guitar — sending fans into a frenzy. She dedicated the song to 'our favorite players.' While tickets for the event had been on sale to the public for some time, Swift's appearance — and performance — was kept tightly under wraps. One Swiftie even livestreamed the performance on X, which showed the singer dressed in a black mini dress paired with a gold belt. Kelce, for his part, rocked a camo shirt and pants as he cheered his famous girlfriend on from the side of the stage. The pair were spotted the night before The performance marked her first since buying back her masters in what was said to be a colossal $360 million deal. The 'Fortnight' singer announced last month that she was finally able to buy back the entire music catalog of her first six studio albums. In 2019, record executive Scooter Braun bought the rights to her first six albums — 'Taylor Swift,' 'Fearless,' 'Speak Now,' 'Red,' '1989' and 'Reputation' — for $300 million (allegedly without her approval) before they were acquired by the investment firm Shamrock Capital a year later. In 2018, however, Swift inked a new deal with Universal Music Group and Republic Records, where she recorded and owns the masters of 'Lover,' 'Folklore,' 'Evermore,' 'Midnights' and 'The Tortured Poets Department.' Alongside a lengthy letter penned to fans, Swift broke her social media silence to celebrate the win by sharing photos of her sitting with her first six original albums fanned around her. 'You belong with me,' she captioned the post, quoting her famous 2008 song.
