In a recent interview with Billboard, Joe Elliott reflected on Def Leppard’s unexpected collaboration with Taylor Swift, reminiscing about the band’s rehearsal rendition of Swift’s hit “Love Story” 16 years ago. Expressing admiration for Swift’s meteoric rise as an artist, Elliott drew parallels between her success and the iconic stature of bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, suggesting that she may even surpass them in influence among her generation of fans.
Elliott marveled at Swift’s unparalleled achievements in the era of streaming, remarking on her ability to transcend traditional metrics of success and redefine the music industry’s landscape. He acknowledged that while many successful acts have graced the charts, Swift’s ascent has been nothing short of extraordinary, propelling her to heights previously unimaginable.
Recalling Def Leppard’s collaboration with Swift on CMT’s “Crossroads” when she was just eighteen, Elliott emphasized his early recognition of her talent and noted her familial connection to the band through her mother’s fandom. He revealed Swift’s expressed desire to collaborate with Def Leppard on the show, a sentiment that both flattered and intrigued the band, leading to their memorable performance together.
Meanwhile, Swift’s latest album, “The Tortured Poets Department,” shattered streaming records on platforms like Spotify from its release day, garnering unprecedented pre-saves and establishing itself as the most streamed album of 2024 in a single day. As Swift continues her “Eras Tour,” captivating audiences worldwide, Def Leppard prepares to embark on their own series of shows, kicking off in St. Louis, Missouri, on July 6, following Swift’s trailblazing footsteps across the globe.
