Texas Tech Is Teaching A Class On The Music Of Taylor Swift

Texas Tech is taking an innovative approach to teaching.

It Will Probably Be Controversial

I can't wait to see some good ol' boys lose their minds over this one. Swift is a magnate for narcissists who can't stand or understand why this young billionaire is worthy of attention. There are also those who are upset that she is somehow taking away from their football-watching experience (as if they weren't already checking their phones, the cheerleaders, the Jumbotron commercials, and graphics while holding a beer and a plate of nachos). If you think my claim is overblown about the class being controversial, then let me direct you to a story about Texas Tech canceling a class on the history of witchcraft due to conservative (and probably donor) pressure.

What It Is

This class, one of the first, if not the first of its kind focuses on the actual music of Taylor Swift. There has to be tremendous value for both fans and musicians in breaking down the song structures and themes. As someone who enrolled in summer school just to study the music of Led Zeppelin, this is also the kind of class that can motivate you to go to and stay in school. Learning about your passions makes for passionate learners.

It's Good For Texas Tech

Having a class on something like the music of Taylor Swift makes Lubbock seem a little more open, a little more progressive, and a little less rural and that's the type of thing that leads to more students and more visitors. Let's also not forget that this kind of thing will generate publicity for the home of the Red Raiders. In fact, it is truly amazing that more colleges don't take more cues from pop culture to keep learning exciting and relevant to younger people.

It Reflects A Community

The class may be on Taylor Swift's music, but at its heart, it seems to be more about the love of music which is something we could all relate to. I don't expect the Tech Tech Defensive line to take the class, but I sure don't begrudge anyone the opportunity to do a deep dive on their favorite artists. Music connects us, and I'm telling you now, you can expect to see reunions of "Swifties" in the future, just like you do with Greek organizations and graduating classes. There's a LOT that can be learned from the Tay-Tay phenomenon and Texas Tech is smart to have stepped up to teach the music at the core of the artist.