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US pop sensation Taylor Swift has added another glittering achievement to her already monumental career, reaching a significant milestone that arrives amidst fresh buzz surrounding her personal life. The news broke shortly after Swift was spotted enjoying a low-key New York City outing with her boyfriend, Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce. This sighting follows a string of recent public appearances, including their attendance at Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Final in Florida.
Just days after the landmark moment of regaining full ownership of her entire music catalog masters, the 35-year-old icon has secured a prestigious accolade that further cements her legacy in the music industry, proving her star power remains undimmed even during a quieter period.
Taylor Swift's "Midnights" crowned
The major milestone causing waves isn't a new release or chart position, but a remarkable recognition from one of music's most authoritative voices. Swift's 2022 album "Midnights" has been officially named the greatest tenth studio album ever released by a female artist this century by Rolling Stone magazine. This prestigious designation places "Midnights" in rarefied air, celebrating its artistic impact, cultural resonance, and songwriting prowess years after its initial record-shattering debut.
The honor wasn't bestowed lightly. "Midnights" secured the No. 21 spot overall on Rolling Stone's extensive list ranking the greatest tenth albums across all artists and eras. Its position highlights its significance not just within Taylor Swift's own discography, but within the broader landscape of popular music history.
The only tenth studio album by a female artist ranked higher than "Midnights" is the legendary Aretha Franklin's 1967 masterpiece, "I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You," showcasing the elite company Swift now keeps with this recognition.
This accolade for "Midnights" arrives as Taylor Swift enjoys a well-deserved respite from the relentless pace of her record-breaking "Eras Tour." That global phenomenon concluded in December after an astonishing 149 shows across 21 countries, spanning nearly two years.
Understandably, 2025 has seen the superstar consciously step back from the intense spotlight. She hasn't released new music this year, instead focusing on personal moments, like supporting Travis Kelce and her heartwarming, unpublicized visit to a children's hospital following the Stanley Cup game.
Her recent NYC appearance with Kelce, who had just finished the Chiefs' mandatory minicamp, fueled fan excitement but also underscored her current lower-key phase. However, the Rolling Stone recognition for "Midnights" serves as a powerful reminder that her musical achievements continue to resonate and be celebrated globally, independent of constant new releases or public appearances. It celebrates the enduring quality and impact of a body of work that dominated the charts and the cultural conversation upon its release.
Looking ahead, reports suggest Taylor Swift is gearing up to enthusiastically support Travis Kelce during the upcoming NFL season, planning to attend as many games as possible. With her schedule significantly freer than during the intense "Eras Tour" period, she has the flexibility to cheer from the stands.
Yet, amid the buzz of her relationship and her return to a more private life, this Rolling Stone honor for "Midnights" stands as a monumental, independent career triumph – a testament to the album's lasting power and Swift's unparalleled position as a defining artist of her generation. It's a milestone that shines brightly on its own, even as she enjoys life's quieter moments.
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