Excitement is growing around Scott Borchetta’s recent reflections on his first meeting with Taylor Swift 20 years ago. The Big Machine Label Group CEO shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, marking the anniversary of a moment that shaped their careers. Why is this moment significant for Borchetta? How did their partnership lead to both professional success and public discord?
Let’s explore the story behind this iconic relationship and its lasting impact.
Scott Borchetta reminiscences meeting Taylor Swift
Scott Borchetta recently reflected on the first time he met Taylor Swift, sharing his memory on Instagram.
“It was 20 years ago today… a Beatles reference may not be too far off the mark…,” Borchetta, 62, posted on November 2 to commemorate the milestone. He described their initial meeting as a life-changing day for both of them. Alongside his message, he included a picture of Swift at the Bluebird Cafe, where Borchetta first saw her perform. “This photo was taken two nights later at the Bluebird Cafe,” he continued. He noted his presence in the audience, as well as Swift’s mother, Andrea.
Borchetta expressed pride in Swift’s accomplishments, saying, “Always proud of the art and the work she did while we were together… and just as proud of her now. Keep crushing it… xx.” Their partnership led Swift to sign with his Big Machine Label Group, propelling her into mainstream success. However, in 2018, Swift announced her decision to sign with Republic Records, citing her excitement for a new phase in her career.
Their relationship turned sour in 2019 when Scooter Braun acquired Big Machine and Swift’s master recordings. Swift publicly voiced her dissatisfaction, writing, “Never in my worst nightmares did I imagine the buyer would be Scooter.” She claimed Borchetta knew her reluctance toward Braun, adding, “He knew what he was doing; they both did.”
Borchetta responded, stating he had informed Swift of the sale beforehand and that she had opportunities to buy her masters. Swift’s lawyer, Donald Passman, countered this, denying she was offered a fair chance. Swift subsequently announced her decision to rerecord her albums, now known as “Taylor’s Version,” as a way to reclaim her work.
Despite the turbulent history, Borchetta told Billboard in 2020 that he continues to root for Swift, acknowledging her brilliance and their impactful journey together.