Taylor Swift has been making headlines recently with her actions both on and off the stage. Here’s a summary of the latest news surrounding the pop superstar:
Taylor Swift’s Generous Bonus to Truck Crew
On the eve of wrapping up the US leg of her Eras Tour, Taylor Swift surprised the tour’s trucking staff by giving each trucker a check for $100,000. Michael Scherkenbach, founder and CEO of Shomotion trucking company, one of two transportation companies used by the tour, revealed the generous gesture to CNN.
The bonus was given to nearly 50 members of the combined trucking crews, far exceeding the standard expected bonus of $5,000 to $10,000. Scherkenbach described the amount as “life-changing,” emphasizing the grueling task the truckers undertake, living on the road and being away from their families for 24 weeks.
The surprise was unveiled during a meeting led by Swift’s father, Scott Swift. Taylor also insisted on writing a handwritten note to each driver, adding a personal touch to the gesture. Other tour crew members, including those in catering, video, audio, and lighting, also received bonuses.
Los Angeles Hotel Strike During Swift’s Concerts
As Taylor Swift’s concerts in Los Angeles are set to take place, fans may find a large number of staff at their hotels on strike. The union representing 15,000 hotel workers resumed strikes at four hotels near LAX and SoFi Stadium, where the Eras Tour concerts will be held.
Some California politicians wrote to Swift, urging her to cancel her shows in LA, as they believe Swift’s concerts would financially benefit the hotels they are battling. The union, Unite Here Local 11, has been staging rolling strikes since early July to improve industry workers’ wages.
The strike has affected several prominent hotels, and an open letter to Swift expressed the struggle of hotel workers in the region, emphasizing how the hotels will profit from her concerts while workers continue to struggle.
Surprise Songs on the Eras Tour
For Taylor Swift fans, the Eras Tour has been filled with surprises, particularly during the “surprise song o’clock” segment of her shows. During this time, Swift performs two acoustic songs, plucking selections from her discography to play on the guitar and piano.
With six Los Angeles shows remaining on the U.S. leg of the tour, fans are eagerly anticipating what surprises Swift has in store. Speculation includes potential guest appearances, such as Ed Sheeran, and the performance of new versions of her songs.
A list of songs that haven’t been performed during the Eras Tour so far has been compiled, including tracks from various albums and bonus songs not included on any album. Fans are also looking forward to the possibility of announcements related to upcoming projects.
Conclusion
Taylor Swift continues to captivate audiences with her music and surprise performances, but her actions off the stage are equally noteworthy. Her generous bonus to her trucking crew reflects a deep appreciation for the hard work that goes into her shows. Meanwhile, her concerts in Los Angeles coincide with a significant labor dispute, highlighting broader issues within the hospitality industry. Swift’s ability to blend artistry with empathy and social awareness makes her one of the most compelling figures in contemporary music. Her ongoing Eras Tour promises more surprises and memorable moments for fans, solidifying her status as a pop icon.