Taylor Swift responds to ‘The Life of a Showgirl’ criticism with confident message

Taylor Swift has spoken out about the mixed reactions to her latest album, The Life of a Showgirl, saying she fully embraces public opinion as part of the entertainment business.

Appearing on Apple Music’s The Zane Lowe Show on October 7, Swift discussed her creative process, her relationship with Travis Kelce, and how she handles criticism of her twelfth studio album.

“It’s a rule of show business to welcome the chaos,” Swift told host Zane Lowe. “If it’s the first week of my album release and you’re saying either my name or my album title, you’re helping. Art is subjective, and everyone is allowed to feel exactly how they want.”

The singer noted that despite the divided reviews—from Rolling Stone’s five-star rating to Pitchfork’s 5.9 out of 10—she stands firmly behind her work. “I have such an eye on legacy when I’m making my music,” she said. “I know what I made. I know I adore it, and I know that on the theme of what the Showgirl is, all of this is part of it.”

Swift also opened up about the inspiration behind her track “Wi$h Li$t,” confirming it was inspired by fiancé Travis Kelce. “When I met Travis, I started to feel like I could have romantic whims and dreams again,” she explained. The pop star described the song’s chorus as her “happy place,” comparing it to the utopia scene from Happy Gilmore.

With The Life of a Showgirl dominating headlines and streams, Swift’s latest comments prove she’s taking both praise and criticism in stride—secure in her art and confident in her legacy.