The standout hits from Taylor Swift, such as “Love Story” and “You Belong with Me,” left a significant mark, according to recent research.
A team led by Gabrielle Tepp from Caltech conducted a study published in Seismological Research Letters, focusing on a stop of Taylor Swift’s “Eras Tour” that caused seismic activity.
At the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on August 5, 2023, strong motion sensors were placed ahead of the concert to measure the seismic impact of Swift’s songs, particularly noting the energy released during performances of hits like “Shake it Off.”
The research revealed that the enthusiasm of the 70,000-strong crowd generated seismic waves equivalent to a -2 magnitude earthquake, primarily from the collective dancing and jumping.
The study compared this phenomenon to a Metallica concert at the same venue, noting differences in audience behavior and resulting seismic signals. Swift’s meticulously choreographed performances were found to maintain consistent beat ranges compared to recorded versions, contributing to the study’s findings.
This concert wasn’t the first time Swift’s fans caused seismic activity, with similar occurrences during tour stops in Seattle, Washington. As Swift prepares for her European leg of the “Eras Tour” in May 2024, it’s clear that her music continues to shake things up both on stage and beneath the ground.