International superstar’s absence in China : Taylor Swift and the eras tour

Abstract

This dissertation examines the profound impact of Taylor Swift on the construction of Chinese youth’s identity through her music within the context of contemporary globalization. By analyzing Swift’s distinctive persona and cultural influence, this study integrates perspectives from musicology, semiotics, and sociology to present a comprehensive analysis. Swift’s influence is demonstrated through her popular feminism and support for the queer community, empowering young women and marginalized groups by providing them with a cultural space to assert themselves in a rapidly modernizing society. The research investigates how her lyrics and performances serve as textual representations of various emotions that shape her fans’ experiences. Drawing upon John Fiske’s theory of consumer resistance, this study views Swift’s Chinese fans as embodiments of symbolic defiance against established societal conventions and argues that Swift successfully captivates her audience through an emotional mechanism, leading to widespread admiration and active engagement despite cultural differences. The findings suggest that Swift’s popularity among Chinese youth not only reflects her musical talent but also resonates with their aspirations and challenges. This study contributes to understanding celebrity influence in a globalized context while offering insights into the formation of Chinese youth identity within the framework of popular culture studies. Words