For then-26-year-old Taylor Swift, 2016 was a year that might only happen in your wildest dreams. Nothing broke the singer-songwriter’s stride when it came to proceeding forward with an attitude of business as was common amidst a headline-grabbing personal life.
Ranked at #60 on Forbes list of America’s Richest Self-Made Women with an estimated net worth of $250 million, Swift also come into being 2016 with a bang as she was reported to be “the most marketable musician within the world.”
Her music career aside, it seems Swift’s business savvy is at its strongest when it involves establishing strategic partnerships, advocating for the rights of recording artists, and supporting causes with monetary donations. Here’s a glance back at a number of Swift’s most notable business decisions in 2016 if you’re in need of a memory refresh.
1. With Apple Music, creating a trio of catchy commercial spots.
In an exceedingly series of three commercial spots with Apple Music, Swift put aside her famous persona in favor of just being a woman who loves paying attention to music.
2. Developing her first mobile game.
To develop her first mobile game, Swift has been working alongside game publisher Glu Mobile, as reported in Variety. While the main points are still largely covert (scheduled for a worldwide release in late 2016), what we do know is committing to making something innovative and special for Swift’s fan base has been the highest priority for the publisher and pop star alike.
3. Digital Millennium Copyright Act Reform Petitio to Congress.
About the music industry’s practices, it’s no secret that Swift has been outspoken. Previously, she penned a missive to Apple Music criticizing their decision to not pay musicians when the service launched a three-month free period.
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4. Giving back with donations.
What’s your next move when you’re crowned the quantity one spot on Billboard’s Top Money Makers list in 2015? return to the community. A $1 million donation to Louisiana flood relief and a donation to Cedars-Sinai Hospital in LA are included in a number of Swift’s steady financial contributions over the year.
Swiftie fans, who would want to know how to play “All Too Well” (Taylor’s Version) on Acoustic Guitar, also received unexpected gifts. Swift donated to a GoFundMe campaign for an acquaintance that kicked the bucket during a car accident to help with funeral arrangements and surprised students at the University of Connecticut’s annual HuskyTHON charity dance marathon with a present of $1,989.
5. For a partnership deal, joining forces with AT&T.
Featuring exclusive performances and headlining the AT&T DirecTV Super Saturday Night concert the day before the 2017 Super Bowl, Swift was signed for a partnership deal, AT&T announced in October.
6. Discuss future business plans within the pages of Vogue magazine.
What’s next for Swift in 2017? She shared her future plans in an interview with Vogue as she preps for a post-tour break. Short-term goals like getting certified in CPR hover closer to the highest of her to-do list than whipping out a replacement album. Launching a clothing line would be another potential revenue stream.
So, something that never goes out of fashion then? Gotcha.