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“I Finally Own My Work”: Taylor Swift Reclaims Her Legacy in $300M Deal

  • Writer: Luke Thompson
    Luke Thompson
  • Jun 2
  • 2 min read

The image shows Taylor Swift sitting on a white floor, surrounded by several of her album covers arranged in a semi-circle around her. She is wearing a light blue short-sleeved top, light-wash wide-leg jeans, and white sneakers. She has long, wavy brown hair and is looking directly at the camera with a slight smile. The album covers visible include "1989 (Taylor's Version)", "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)", "Red (Taylor's Version)", and others.
Taylor Swift is now the rightful owner of her life's work. @taylorswift/Instagram

Taylor Swift has officially bought back the rights to the master recordings (original version) of her first six studio albums. The milestone marks a major personal and professional victory for the global pop icon. 


On Friday (30 May) Swift announced the news on her website, saying: "I've been bursting into tears of joy... ever since I found out this is really happening."


The masters taken back include: Taylor Swift, Fearless, Speak Now, Red, 1989 and Reputation.


The original recordings of these albums had been sold without her consent in a highly publicised 2019 deal.


That deal, which saw music executive Scooter Braun purchase Big Machine Label Group, sparked a years-long dispute.


In a brief statement to The Independent following Swift's announcement, Braun said that he is 'happy for her'.

The image features Scooter Braun, a man with short dark hair, wearing a black baseball cap with a red rose embroidery on the front. He is also wearing a light grey crew-neck sweater. He has a light beard and mustache and is looking slightly upwards and to his right with his mouth open as if speaking. A small microphone is attached to his ear. His right hand is raised, with fingers slightly spread, as if gesturing during a conversation. The background is dark and out of focus, suggesting he is on a stage or in a conference setting.
Scooter Braun became the owner of Swift's music in 2019. @scooterbraun/Instagram.

Swift was outspoken about not being given the chance to buy back her work directly.


In response, she began re-recording her masters under the “Taylor’s Version” label. The strategy was immensely successful, with each re-release topping charts and winning critical praise. 


Behind the scenes, Swift quietly negotiated with Shamrock Holdings, the investment firm that acquired her masters from Braun in 2020. After months of private discussions, a deal was finalised, though the financial terms remain undisclosed.


According to industry experts, the recordings value over $300 million. The acquisition cements Swift’s position not just as one of the most successful artists in history but as a savvy businesswoman.


Jem Aswad, executive music editor for Variety magazine, noted: “The battle has immeasurably burnished her reputation while doing significant damage to Braun's.


“The entire feud has taught untold millions of people, especially creatives, about the value of owning one's work.”


A wild response from fans on social media sparked worldwide-trending hashtags like #TaylorOwnsHerMasters and #SwiftWins. Supporters and fellow musicians praised her persistence and leadership.


For Swift, the moment is about more than business. Writing to fans on her website, the pop mogul expressed: “To say this is my greatest dream come true is actually being pretty reserved about it.” 

The image captures Taylor Swift on stage at Wembley Stadium in London during the final leg of her European Eras Tour, holding a light-coloured acoustic guitar. She is singing into a microphone on a stand. Her outfit is a sparkling, short dress with colourful sequins and fringe details. Her hair is styled in loose waves, and she has a bright smile on her face. The background is brightly lit with a pink and purple hue, suggesting stage lighting. A blurred reflection of Taylor on the main stage screen is visible in the background.
Swift enjoying the final leg of her European Eras Tour at Wembley Stadium, London. @taylorswift/Instagram.

With her master recordings back in her hands and the Eras Tour continuing its global success, Swift’s influence shows no signs of slowing. She has not only reclaimed her music, but also reshaped the conversation around artist rights.


This historic move is likely to inspire a new generation of musicians. Taylor Swift has once again proven that she’s not just writing lyrics, she’s writing the rules. 

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