It was a night to remember for Scarlett Oliver, a 9-year-old girl from Sydney who was battling cancer. She had been waiting months for her idol, Taylor Swift, to perform live at the Eras Tour in Sydney. Little did she know she would receive the ultimate surprise: the “22” hat.
🎥| A fan with cancer whose wish was to meet Taylor Swift got tonight’s 22 hat PIC.TWITTER.COM/XE6CHTWBJH
— The Swift Society (@TheSwiftSociety) FEBRUARY 23, 2024
As Taylor Swift sang the catchy chorus of “22”, she walked down the stage and scanned the crowd. She spotted Scarlett wearing a black dress. She smiled and asked Scarlett’s permission to hug her. Then Taylor handed her the black fedora surprisingly. Scarlett couldn’t believe her eyes. She burst into tears and hugged the hat, feeling a wave of emotions. She had just received the most coveted souvenir of the tour: the “22” hat.
The “22” hat is a black fedora that Taylor Swift wears during her performance of the song “22”. The hat was created by Mexican American designer Gladys Tamez, who also designed hats for Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, and Johnny Depp. The hat is a symbol of the opening of Taylor Swift’s “Red” era show, which features songs from her album “Red (Taylor’s Version).”
The hat is not just a fashion accessory; it’s a tradition. Every night of the Eras Tour, Taylor Swift gives her “22” hat to a different fan chosen by her team. The fans never know who will be the lucky recipient, adding an element of surprise and excitement to the show. The fans keep the hats as souvenirs, making each performance unique and personalized.
The “22” hat has been the source of many heartwarming stories. Taylor Swift has gifted it to fans who have overcome challenges, inspired others, or shared her love for music. Some notable recipients include Bianka Bryant, the 6-year-old daughter of the late NBA legend Kobe Bryant. She received the hat during the Eras Tour concert film. Taylor Swift had a close relationship with Kobe Bryant and his family and dedicated the song “Never Grow Up” to them.
The song “22” is a hit track from Taylor Swift’s album “Red (Taylor’s Version)”, which was released in 2021. The album is a re-recording of her original album “Red,” which came out in 2012. Taylor Swift wrote the song “22” when she was 22, describing it as the “perfect age.” The song celebrates youth, freedom, and friendship and has become an anthem for many fans.
The “22” hat is more than just a prop; it symbolizes a connection between Taylor Swift and her fans. The hat represents the joy and spirit of the song “22” and Taylor Swift’s bond with her loyal supporters. The hat has also become a cultural icon, sparking fan communities, online discussions, and media attention. The “22” hat is a testament to Taylor Swift’s generosity, creativity, and love for her fans.
