Taylor Swift's "Father Figure" Sparks Debate Over Music Ownership and Industry Power Dynamics

Taylor Swift's 'Father Figure' Song Sparks Debate Over Music Ownership In her latest album, The Life of a Showgirl, Taylor Swift released the song "Father Figure," which many believe is about Scott Borchetta, the record label executive who signed her to Big Machine Records at 15. The lyrics suggest a complex and contentious relationship between Swift and Borchetta, particularly in regards to the ownership of her music. According to sources close to the matter, the hurt and anger expressed in "Father Figure" stem from Borchetta's decision to sell Swift's music catalog to Scooter Braun in 2019. This move sparked a six-year-long battle over the ownership of her music, which culminated in Swift re-recording her albums. Swift has been vocal about her concerns regarding music ownership and exploitation. In a 2019 Tumblr post, she explained that she felt taken advantage of by a bad record deal: "I was given an opportunity to sign with Big Machine Records, but I was also given the opportunity to sign away my rights as an artist." Industry experts attribute Swift's frustration to the changing landscape of music ownership. "The way artists are treated in this industry is often exploitative," said Dr. Emily Chen, a music industry expert at New York University. "Taylor Swift's situation highlights the need for greater transparency and fairness in record deals." Borchetta has yet to publicly comment on the song or his relationship with Swift. However, sources close to him suggest that he feels misunderstood by the public. The debate over music ownership is not new, but Swift's high-profile battle has brought attention to the issue. As the music industry continues to evolve, artists and labels are re-examining their relationships and seeking greater fairness in record deals. Swift's re-recording process, which began with the release of "Folklore" in 2020, is seen as a bold move by some and a necessary step by others. "Taylor Swift is taking control of her music and legacy," said Dr. Chen. "She's setting an example for other artists who may be facing similar situations." The outcome of Swift's battle with Borchetta and Braun remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the music industry will continue to grapple with issues of ownership and exploitation. Background Taylor Swift signed with Big Machine Records in 2005 at the age of 15. In 2019, Scott Borchetta sold her music catalog to Scooter Braun's company, Ithaca Holdings. This move sparked a heated debate over the ownership of her music, which culminated in Swift re-recording her albums. Additional Perspectives Industry experts and artists are weighing in on the situation. "Taylor Swift is not alone in this fight," said artist Halsey. "Many of us have been taken advantage of by record labels and managers." Current Status and Next Developments The battle over music ownership continues, with Swift's re-recording process ongoing. As the industry evolves, artists and labels are seeking greater transparency and fairness in record deals. Sources: Maya Georgi, "Taylor Swift came out literally swinging on Father Figure," October 4, 2025 Taylor Swift, Tumblr post, June 30, 2019 Dr. Emily Chen, New York University, interview with author *Reporting by Rollingstone.*