Taylor Swift Collaborates with Stevie Nicks on 'The Tortured Poets Department' Introduction

Stevie Nicks Writes Poem for Taylor Swift New Album

Dia Dipasupil/FilmMagic; Sarah Morris/FilmMagic

Stevie Nicks has joined the TTPD chat. The 75-year-old Fleetwood Mac singer-songwriter wrote the opening prologue poem for Taylor Swift's new album, The Tortured Poets Department. The album was released on April 19. Fans who bought the vinyl or CD got to see Nicks' handwritten words in the insert, along with a sweet dedication: "For T and me…."

Nicks began by expressing that he was in love with her, or at least she thought so. She was left brokenhearted, and maybe he was too. Neither of them truly understood the situation - she was too hot to handle, and he was too high to even notice her.

The poem delved into the complexities of their doomed relationship, almost labeling it as a tragedy. Nicks noted that he couldn't provide her with answers, as he was afraid of her, hiding from her, and aware that he was causing her pain.

Nicks’ friendship with Swift has been well-documented over the years, so it’s no surprise that he wanted to contribute to her latest project. Back in 2010, he even wrote a tribute to her for TIME Magazine’s TIME 100 series. In his tribute, he talked about their performance together at the Grammys that same year.

Despite their stark physical differences - with Swift being 20 years old, 5 ft. 11 in. and slender, and Nicks being 40 years older and not as tall or slender - Nicks couldn’t resist standing next to Swift on national television. He was captivated by her radiant smile and star-like presence, making it impossible for him to say no to her.

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Stevie Nicks praised Taylor Swift for her incredible songwriting skills, comparing her to legendary artists like Neil Diamond and Elton John. Nicks highlighted Swift's ability to seamlessly transition between pop, rock, and country genres in her ballads. Nicks also reflected on her own journey at 20 years old, making the decision to pursue music instead of being a dental assistant. In contrast, Taylor Swift, at the same age, had already won four Grammys.

Recently, the singer of "Go Your Own Way" shared some of her creative wisdom with Taylor Swift during an interview with TODAY in October 2023. Nicks mentioned that she always stays true to herself when writing songs, a quality that Swift also embodies.

Nicks expressed, "I believe that if Taylor Swift, who is my friend, learned anything from me, it's the importance of honesty in songwriting. I never sugarcoat my experiences - if I was the one who got dumped, I won't pretend otherwise. Honesty is key in my music."

Swift's honesty shines through on TTPD and the double album, The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology, both released on Friday. Fans were expecting Swift to address her breakup with Joe Alwyn, her six-year partner, but instead, the new songs focus on her short relationship with The 1975 frontman Matty Healy.

In the song "Clara Bow," Swift mentions Stevie Nicks in the second verse, saying, "You look like Stevie Nicks in '75, the hair and lips. The crowd goes wild at her fingertips, half-moon shine a full eclipse. I'm not trying to exaggerate, but I think I might die if I made it."

Editor's P/S:

The collaboration between Stevie Nicks and Taylor Swift on "The Tortured Poets Department" is a testament to the enduring power of music and the shared experiences that transcend generations. Nicks' poignant prologue poem sets the tone for the album's exploration of heartbreak and the complexities of human relationships. Her insights into her own experiences with love and loss lend a sense of authenticity and depth to the narrative. The poem's themes resonate with Swift's own journey as an artist, as she navigates the challenges of fame and personal vulnerability.

Nicks' mentorship of Swift highlights the importance of intergenerational connections within the music industry. Swift's admiration for Nicks' artistry and unwavering commitment to truth in songwriting is evident in both her own creative process and her public statements. Their friendship serves as an inspiration for aspiring musicians, demonstrating the value of collaboration and the transformative power of shared experiences.