Taylor Swift’s “Swag Surfin'” Dance Spurs Debate on Appropriation and Artist Credit

If you’re a fan of the NFL, Taylor Swift, or have recently surfed the internet, chances are you’ve witnessed Taylor Swift supporting her boyfriend Travis Kelce during the Kansas City Chiefs’ Super Bowl run. Notably, she danced to Fast Like Youngstaz’s (F.L.Y.) 2009 hit, “Swag Surfin’,” featuring Ea$ton—an iconic track in HBCU and sports culture. However, this sparked discussions about who deserves credit for its resurgence: the dancers or the original creators?

Mook, a member of F.L.Y., expressed enthusiasm about Taylor Swift’s involvement, recognizing the positive impact of her support. “Our streams across all platforms are up 700%,” he stated, highlighting a significant boost in YouTube numbers and a gain of 20,000 subscribers in just two weeks. He described the unfolding scenario as a remarkable and rapid development for the song, proposing the idea of a Taylor Swift remix with a rap verse.

The suggestion of a remix, particularly involving Taylor Swift, stirred varied reactions on social media. Some saw it as a form of appropriation or a way to capitalize on another artist’s work, while others deemed it cringe-worthy. Amid these discussions, it’s essential to consider whether assumptions about Taylor Swift’s motives, NFL visibility, and dance participation are fair or founded.

Despite the uncertainties surrounding the potential remix, many fans hope to witness a positive and wholesome bond between Kelce and the superstar singer. While concerns about exposure vary, the Super Bowl may influence perceptions and contribute to the ongoing conversation about the intersection of music, celebrity culture, and sports.