The Black Dog, a pub located in south London, recently found itself at the center of attention due to an influx of Swifties over the weekend. This surge in patrons was a result of the pub being mentioned in a song on Taylor Swift’s 11th album, The Tortured Poets Department. The album broke Spotify’s record for the most-streamed album in a single day, sparking a sudden interest in the small venue. Lily Bottomley, the events and social manager for SC Soho, the hospitality group that owns The Black Dog, expressed her amazement at the coincidence and the subsequent increase in traffic to the pub.
Embracing the Taylor Swift Fandom
In response to the unexpected influx of fans, The Black Dog team took quick action by creating a presence on TikTok and engaging with fans on social media. This proactive approach paid off, with the pub being fully booked for the week and nearly reaching capacity for Taylor Swift’s upcoming tour dates. Bottomley described the experience as fantastic for business, with fans showing overwhelming positivity towards the pub. Additional security measures were put in place to manage the large crowds, and staff members even reviewed security footage in hopes of spotting Taylor Swift during her visit.
Speculations and Excitement
Aside from hoping to catch a glimpse of Taylor Swift, many fans were also curious about sightings of Swift’s past “London Boy” exes, Joe Alwyn and Matty Healy. The excitement and buzz surrounding The Black Dog during this time have made it a memorable experience for both staff and customers alike. Despite the overwhelming attention, Bottomley expressed the pub’s enthusiasm and openness to welcoming Taylor Swift back in the future.
Overall, the impact of Taylor Swift’s music on small businesses in London, such as The Black Dog, serves as a testament to the power of celebrity influence and fandom. The surge in patronage and positive reception from fans highlight the ways in which artists like Taylor Swift can drive engagement and business growth for establishments. As Swift continues to captivate audiences worldwide, it is clear that her presence extends far beyond the boundaries of the music industry, leaving a lasting impression on fans and businesses alike.