Unlocking the Inspiration Behind Taylor Swift’s ‘Father Figure’ Song

## Taylor Swift’s Evolution in “Father Figure”

Taylor Swift makes a powerful statement in her song “Father Figure,” inspired by the iconic George Michael. This track from her latest album, *The Life of a Showgirl*, sees Swift embodying a character reminiscent of a father figure from her past. With provocative lines like, “I can make deals with the devil because my dick’s bigger,” she immediately grabs attention.

### Who is “Father Figure” Really About?

The narrative seems to revolve around Scott Borchetta, the executive who took a chance on Swift when she was just 15. His decision to sign her at the renowned Bluebird Cafe sparked her career, but the lyrics reflect unresolved tensions that arose after Borchetta sold her music catalog to Scooter Braun. This controversial move ignited a lengthy struggle concerning the ownership of her work, which has led to Swift’s re-recording efforts, known as “Taylor’s Version.”

In 2019, Swift took to Tumblr to express her frustration regarding her music rights. She described feeling trapped in an unfair contract, stating she was given the chance to reclaim her albums one at a time, which felt exploitative. Her profound sense of betrayal came from Borchetta’s choice to sell Big Machine Records to Braun, someone with whom she had a tumultuous history.

### Themes of Betrayal and Loyalty

Swift’s distress is palpable as she recalls never expecting Braun to be the buyer. She once shared, “Any time Scott Borchetta heard the words ‘Scooter Braun’ escape my lips, it was when I was either crying or trying not to.” This sentiment rings through in “Father Figure” when she notes, “They don’t make loyalty like they used to,” drawing a direct connection to her experiences.

This isn’t the first time Swift has tackled feelings of betrayal in her music. Following the 2019 sale, themes of loss and resilience permeated her works. For instance, her songs on the albums *folklore* and *evermore* explore these emotional complexities. Tracks like “My Tears Ricochet” serve as a metaphorical funeral for her lost work, while “Right Where You Left Me” and “It’s Time to Go” delve into the consequences of her past decisions with Borchetta.

### Turning the Narrative Around

With “Father Figure,” Swift reflects on her journey after reclaiming her masters in May. By the end of the track, she shifts perspectives, presenting a narrative that’s unmistakably her own. The repeated line, “I protect the family,” could symbolize her first six albums, emphasizing her growth and newfound autonomy.

Today, Swift is in control of her music career, making choices based on her desires. Meanwhile, Borchetta remains at the helm of what is now the Big Machine Label Group but has refrained from commenting on Swift since 2020.

What do you think about the evolution of Taylor Swift’s music and her fight for ownership?