Is Taylor Swift chart-blocking Olivia Rodrigo? Singer faces claims after releasing new ‘Patient Zero’ versions

Taylor Swift has faced fresh accusations of chart-blocking after releasing piano and acoustic versions of her latest single, “Patient Zero”, as Olivia Rodrigo and Chappell Roan promote their “Expectations” remix.

Swift released both stripped-back recordings on streaming platforms on October 16, extending the momentum behind a track that has topped the Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Official Singles Chart for two consecutive weeks.

The timing has prompted renewed discussion about Swift’s release strategy, with some accusing the singer of attempting to block competing artists from chart positions.

However, others have pointed out that releasing alternative versions later is not unusual for her team, suggesting the latest releases could follow an established pattern rather than represent a response to Rodrigo and Roan’s remix.

Meanwhile, the “Expectations” remix has received a retro-inspired music video featuring Rodrigo and Roan on fictional game shows, with musician David Byrne appearing as host Johnny Johnson.

The video was directed by Bardia Zeinali, while producer Dan Nigro also makes an appearance.

In an interview with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe, Roan described the collaboration as her first feature and praised Rodrigo’s songwriting. 

Whether Swift’s latest versions affect the competing release’s chart performance remains to be seen.