Taylor Swift has confirmed that her twelfth studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, was recorded in Sweden with renowned producers Max Martin and Shellback, marking another chapter in her long-standing collaboration with the country’s music industry.
Swedish producers behind Swift’s twelfth album
In an Instagram post, Swift announced that The Life of a Showgirl will be released on 3 October. The album is co-produced by Max Martin and Shellback, two of Sweden’s most successful music producers and songwriters, who have previously worked with Swift on hit singles such as Shake It Off, Blank Space, and …Ready for It?.
Both have been central figures in shaping the international pop sound over the past two decades, contributing to global hits for artists including Britney Spears, The Weeknd, and Adele.
Recording sessions during The Eras Tour
Speaking on the New Heights podcast hosted by Jason and Travis Kelce, Swift revealed that the recording took place in Sweden during a break in her The Eras Tour, which ran from March 2023 to December 2024.
“I had three days off between shows, so I flew to Sweden and worked on this project,” she said.
Swift co-produced the album alongside Martin and Shellback, describing it as a reflection of her behind-the-scenes experiences and emotions during the tour.
Inspiration and expectations for The Life of a Showgirl
Swift described the new record as emerging from “the most joyfully chaotic, vibrant and dramatic place” in her life. The album follows her 2024 release The Tortured Poets Department, which set streaming records on Spotify with 300 million plays in one day and over one billion in five days. Given her track record and the creative input of Martin and Shellback, expectations for the upcoming release are high.
Sweden’s lasting influence on global pop
Sweden has long been a powerhouse in pop music production, from the era of ABBA to contemporary figures like Martin and Shellback. Their partnership with Swift reinforces the country’s role as a hub for international music creation.
The album’s recording in Sweden adds to the list of global stars who have chosen the country as a creative base, highlighting its enduring influence on the industry.
