LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: In an unexpected turn of events, Philadelphia's Q102 radio station has caused quite a stir among Swifties, according to People.
And the reason is a temporary ban on Taylor Swift's songs leading up to the highly anticipated Kansas City Chiefs versus Philadelphia Eagles game, scheduled for this weekend.
Q102's music ban in support of Eagles
The decision to sideline Swift's tunes comes as a gesture of support for the Eagles, with the station opting to focus solely on rallying behind their local football heroes.
Nugget, a host at Q102, emphasized this stance, stating, "Q102 is punting Taylor Swift from the radio station for the entire weekend because while Q102 loves Taylor Swift, we can't get enough of her, this weekend it's really important we show our support for the Birds," in an interview with CBS News Philadelphia.
This move hasn't been without its share of playful jabs and good-natured banter. Patti LaBelle, the esteemed "Lady Marmalade" singer and Philadelphia native, jokingly urged Taylor Swift and Swifties to take a step back.
LaBelle declared, "You know what – let me say something. Taylor and all your Swifties, back up boo-boo. The Chiefs are going down. The Eagles are gonna win. It’s a done deal. So, I love you Taylor, but stay home."
However, the relationship dynamics between Taylor Swift, 33, and Chiefs' tight end Travis Kelce, 34, are at the heart of this temporary music ban.
Swift, known for her public displays of support, recently made headlines during her Eras Tour stop in Buenos Aires by altering the lyrics of her song 'Karma' to pay homage to Travis Kelce. This move drew applause from the crowd and even elicited a surprised yet adorable reaction from the NFL star himself.
Eagles, Chiefs, and the interwoven connections
Interestingly, despite this outward affection for the Chiefs, Swift's ties to the Eagles run deep. Her family, particularly her father, Scott Swift, has been a long-time supporter of the Philadelphia team.
In her 2020 track 'Gold Rush,' Swift makes a clear reference to the Eagles, stating, "I see me padding across your wooden floors / With my Eagles T-shirt hanging from the door."
Addressing speculation about the ambiguity of the reference, Swift affirmed her allegiance to the Philadelphia Eagles during her Eras Tour stop in the city, putting the debate to rest by clarifying, "Guys, like, come on, like, I’m from Philly, of course it’s the team."
Travis Kelce and his brother Jason, who plays for the Eagles, shared insights on their podcast about Taylor's surprise tribute during her concert in Buenos Aires.
Travis admitted to being somewhat aware that something special might happen during the show but was still taken aback when she altered the lyrics on stage.
As the game day approaches, the temporary ban on Swift's music continues to be a topic of discussion among fans and the media alike.
Despite this playful radio station gesture, it remains clear that Taylor Swift's support for her partner and his team hasn't gone unnoticed, even if it means a brief hiatus for her music on Philadelphia airwaves.
The musical banter between radio stations, football loyalties, and Swift's affectionate nods to her significant other ensure that this game weekend will be an eventful one, both on and off the field.
Internet reacts to Philly radio station's temporary ban on Taylor Swift's music
On Facebook, Swifties reacted strongly to the temporary ban ahead of the Chiefs versus Eagles game.
One wrote, "Philly being way too muchSilliness."
"Good luck enduring Hurricane Taylor! You’re outta your league, Philly," wrote another.
One commented, "Philly seems to forget that over the summer they were crediting her to single handedly boosting their local economy and thanking her fans for supporting small business. But we love some good natured pettiness, I’m hoping her and Kylie show up in the matching princess Di varsity jackets and that she doesn’t forget her roots."
Another wrote, "That is absolutely ridiculous."
"That's really being petty,her fans will be listening to her in other ways," one said.
One wrote, "OMG how ridiculous can we get".
To which another replied, "That is ridiculous."
