Pop Star Taylor Swift to Release New ‘Showgirl’ Version of George Michael’s Iconic Hit ‘Father Figure’
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Taylor Swift is set to pay homage to one of the biggest hits of the 1980s by incorporating George Michael’s 1987 chart-topper “Father Figure” into her upcoming track of the same name. The song, originally released as Michael’s 6th number-one hit in the US, is a significant addition to Swift’s 12th original studio album, ‘The Life of a Showgirl’, scheduled for release on October 3.
George Michael, the mastermind behind the track, penned and produced “Father Figure” for his debut solo album, Faith, in 1987. Following its release, the song quickly climbed the Billboard charts, securing its place as one of the iconic artist’s most popular tracks of the 1980s. With Michael’s untimely passing on Christmas Day in 2016, this rendition by Swift serves as a tribute to the late music legend, immortalizing his music for a new generation of listeners.
While George Michael kept the meaning of the lyrics somewhat ambiguous, fans have interpreted “Father Figure” as a promise from the singer to his lover to care for and protect them akin to a father’s love for their child. Michael once shared insights into the song’s production, noting how the musical composition initially resonated with a Prince-like rhythm. His experimental approach and instinctive decisions while crafting the song resulted in a unique sound that captivated listeners worldwide.
Over the years, “Father Figure” has inspired numerous artists who have either covered or sampled the track. From the Jungle Brothers and P.M. Dawn to LL Cool J and Destiny’s Child, the song has been reimagined across various genres, cementing its status as a timeless classic. Swift’s choice to interpolate the song hints at the lasting influence and versatility of Michael’s musical legacy.
The resurgence of “Father Figure” into popular culture was notably reignited by its inclusion in the film Babygirl, where actor Harris Dickinson’s character is seen dancing to the track. Director Halina Reijn emphasized the song’s relevance to themes of freedom and self-discovery, underscoring the universal need for nurturing and guidance, irrespective of age or gender. The song’s resurgence on TikTok further solidified its enduring appeal across generations.
Reports suggest that Kenny Goss, Michael’s partner, expressed approval of Swift’s rendition, believing that the late singer would have appreciated the pop star’s reinterpretation of his hit. With no official statement from Michael’s estate yet, fans eagerly await the release of Swift’s version of “Father Figure” and the accompanying album, ‘The Life of a Showgirl’.
As Taylor Swift continues to intertwine past musical influences with her signature style, her rendition of George Michael’s “Father Figure” promises to captivate audiences and honour the enduring legacy of a timeless classic. Stay tuned for the release of ‘The Life of a Showgirl’ on October 3, as the pop sensation pays tribute to a monumental era of music through her unique reinterpretation of a beloved track.