Taylor Swift’s concert in Singapore, part of The Eras Tour, was a magnificent event that captivated the audience, showcasing her remarkable career span of 18 years. The concert, held on March 2, was eagerly anticipated by fans, evident from the long queues and numerous articles celebrating Swift’s arrival. Despite not being a die-hard Swiftie myself, with my last favorite album being the non-Taylor’s Version of 1989 from 2014, I was curious to see if I could still connect with her music, especially the post-1989 songs.
The Eras Tour is ingeniously structured, dividing the setlist into segments that represent different albums or “eras” in Swift’s career. This format not only celebrates the memories old fans have but also allows new fans to get acquainted with her expansive discography. Each era begins with visuals and motifs, serving as an introduction to the themes of the respective albums, enhancing the experience for all attendees.
Before Swift took the stage, Sabrina Carpenter opened the concert with a mesmerizing performance. Carpenter, at 24, showcased her talent through songs like “Because I Liked A Boy” and a cover of Abba’s “Dancing Queen,” setting a high bar for the night. Her rendition of “Nonsense” particularly stood out, promising a bright future for her in music.
Swift’s entrance was met with an explosive response from the crowd, starting her set with tracks from the “Lover” era. Despite “Lover” not being my top album choice, Swift’s performance was nothing short of electrifying. Her energy, coupled with her iconic bedazzled Versace bodysuit, set the tone for the night. Throughout the three-and-a-half-hour show, Swift’s vocals were impeccable, complemented by her dynamic stage presence and instrumental skills, marking a significant evolution since her last performance in Singapore in 2015.
A highlight of the concert for me was Swift’s piano performance of a mash-up of “I Don’t Wanna Live Forever” and “Dress,” showcasing her emotional depth and musical talent. The concert’s set design also played a crucial role in bringing each era to life, with the “Evermore” and “Midnights” sections standing out for their thematic depth and visual immersion.
Swift shared personal stories, including her mother’s connection to Singapore, adding a heartfelt touch to the evening. She also acknowledged her international fans, creating an inclusive atmosphere for all attendees. The setlist covered a wide range of Swift’s discography, ensuring that fans of every era had something to cherish.
The concert was nearly flawless, marred only by the National Stadium’s acoustics, which occasionally caused an echoey sound. However, the overall experience lived up to the immense anticipation, making The Eras Tour a candidate for one of the best concerts of 2024 in Singapore. Swift’s ability to connect with fans new and old, combined with her evolution as an artist, made the concert a memorable celebration of her legacy. It left me, someone who had drifted away from her music, with a newfound appreciation for her more recent work, particularly songs from “Evermore” and “Midnights.”
