A cultural reckoning came on October 27, 2014, when Taylor Swift released her seminal pop album 1989. Nestled within its hidden references and poptronica sound was the album’s third song, “Style”.
Originally written as an ode to a tumultuous relationship, the single soon took a life of its own after Swifties alleged the song was written about none other than Harry Styles.
Now, almost a decade later, fans are predicting that the One Direction alumni could vocally feature on the upcoming re-record of “Style (Taylor’s Version)” as part of Swift’s updated 1989 (Taylor’s Version) release.
Since their on-and-off-again relationship from 2011 to 2012, Swift and Styles have remained amicable exes, even being spotted chatting at the 2023 Grammy Awards earlier this year (despite both being nominated in the same ‘Music Video of the Year’ category).
And while we may never have their twee-approved walks through Central Park or New Year’s Eve kisses in Time Square, Haylor could be delivering something far greater: a duet.
Harry Styles singing a love song about himself isn’t the most meta thing to come from 2023, but it turns out we mightn’t have to wait until 1989 (Taylor’s Version)‘s release in October this year to find out.
In a rumour circulated by netizens on Twitter and TikTok, it’s reported that both Swift and Styles’ respective recording companies are co-owners of the trademark for “Style (Taylor’s Version) [Remix].”
They alleged that Swift and the Los Angeles-based band HAIM filled a similar dual trademark for the latter’s single “Gasoline ft. Taylor Swift” off their album Women In Music Part. 3, hinting that this is something Swift is already familiar with.
And while two exes teaming up for a romantic duet would be enough to reset the culture, it’s not the only hoped feature for Swift’s upcoming record.
Fans are hoping that The 1975, led by frontman and former ex-boyfriend Matty Healy, might also make an appearance in the rerecord, either in a duet of one of Swift’s original songs or on her ‘From The Vault’ tracks.
Nevertheless, this is all a matter of fun speculation until the album drops. But it wouldn’t be a Swift record without a trail of Easter Eggs, so we suggest closely following these breadcrumbs for further tidbits.
Is it too early to start a petition for a Swift feature on Styles’ “Two Ghosts”?
This story first appeared on GRAZIA International.