The Story Behind Matty Healy's Iconic 1989 Taylor Swift Shirt

The Story Behind Matty Healy's Iconic 1989 Shirt

If you're a fan of The 1975 frontman Matty Healy, you've likely spotted his infamous t-shirt sporting Taylor Swift's 1989 album cover art. This simple piece of clothing has developed a cult following among fans and become an iconic part of Healy's wardrobe and personal style.

But why is this 1989 shirt so meaningful? What's the story behind Healy's obsession with wearing it? Let's take a look at how this t-shirt became a signature look for the rockstar and Swiftie.

Matty Healy's Love for Taylor Swift

It's no secret Matty Healy is a huge Taylor Swift fan. He's professed his love for her in interviews, covered her songs during live performances, and supported her album releases. Swift even surprised fans by bringing Healy on stage during her Reputation Stadium Tour stop in London.

So it's not shocking Healy would be drawn to promote Swift's massively successful 1989 album. Released in 2014, 1989 marked Swift's official transition from country to pop. The record spawned chart-topping singles like "Shake It Off," "Blank Space," and "Bad Blood."

Wearing It During 1989's Release

Healy was first spotted wearing the 1989 shirt in October 2014, right after Swift's album dropped. He likely got his hands on one of the promotional t-shirts from Swift's label or management.

During The 1975's tour behind their 2013 self-titled debut album, Healy wore the shirt on stage. Fans loved his support of Swift's new era. He also wore it for various appearances like radio interviews.

Confusion Over His "Trouble" Songwriting Credit

For a brief period in 2015, there was confusion over Healy's songwriting credit on Swift's 1989 track "Trouble." Some fans thought Healy actually co-wrote the song.

In reality, another songwriter named Matthew Healy was credited on "Trouble." But Matty Healy of The 1975 leaned into the rumors by continuing to wear his 1989 shirt.

An Ongoing Wardrobe Staple

While the incorrect songwriting credit rumors have long since been cleared up, Healy's 1989 t-shirt has remained a staple. He's worn it to various events over the years like radio appearances, festivals, airport spottings, and more.

Fans now closely associate the shirt with the rocker. It's almost unusual to catch Healy in photos without his worn-in 1989 tee. It's truly become a key part of his image and personal aesthetic.

Relationship With Taylor Swift

Healy wearing the shirt so consistently has even caught Swift's attention. In a 2019 interview with Beats 1 Radio, Healy commented that Swift notices he "wears the shirt all the time."

He also said Swift sends him replacement tees since his original shirt is so faded. She'll mail him a fresh one with a note that says, "I saw yours is looking worn so here's a new one."

This just shows the incredibly supportive relationship between the two music icons. Healy is proud to rep Swift, and she returns the love through gifts of new 1989 merch.

A Touching Tribute

During The 1975's set at Japan's Summer Sonic Festival in August 2019, Healy wore the 1989 shirt as usual. But this time, he used it to pay tribute to late Slipknot drummer Joey Jordison.

Jordison tragically passed away the day before Healy's festival performance. To honor the metal legend, Healy scribbled "R.I.P Joey" across the front of his iconic tee before taking the stage.

It was a subtle but touching way for Healy to memorialize Jordison by utilizing the shirt that's become so dear to him and fans.

An Iconic Merch Moment

While some artists are known for signature outfits or hairstyles, Matty Healy's claim to fame is his 1989 tour t-shirt. It may have started out as just a piece of band merch to show Swiftie support, but it's transformed into a true fashion statement.

The faded, oversized tee perfectly encapsulates Healy's carefree rockstar vibe. It also demonstrates the meaningful connections that can form between artists in different genres. The shirt is a heartwarming representation of mutual respect and admiration.

Here's hoping Healy continues to proudly wear this iconic memento of pop history for years to come. It's a reminder of Swift's monumental career evolution and Healy's status as the #1 fanboy.

FAQs

Where did Matty Healy get his 1989 shirt originally?

He likely got an original 1989 promotional t-shirt from Taylor Swift's record label or management team shortly after the album's release in October 2014.

How did the songwriting credit rumor start?

In 2015, some fans thought Matty Healy co-wrote Swift's "Trouble" from 1989 because another songwriter named Matthew Healy was credited. But it was just a coincidence.

Why does Healy wear the shirt so often?

The vintage 1989 tee has become a staple of Healy's personal style and image. Fans love seeing him repping his Swift fandom too.

Does Swift interact with Healy about the shirt?

Yes, Swift notices Healy wearing the shirt "all the time" and mails him new ones when his gets too worn out.

How did Healy pay tribute to Joey Jordison?

When the Slipknot drummer passed away in 2019, Healy wrote "R.I.P Joey" on his 1989 shirt and wore it during a festival performance.