'TTPD': London pub gains international fame after Taylor Swift shoutout
What can a shoutout from an internationally acclaimed artist do for your business? Turn it completely around! The Black Dog, a popular pub in Vauxhall, London, has been catapulted into global recognition after being mentioned in Taylor Swift's latest album, The Tortured Poets Department. This unexpected marketing has led to an influx of fans visiting the pub and buying pint glasses as souvenirs. Amy Cowley, the pub's marketing consultant, described this sudden fame as both "surreal" and a "whirlwind."
Swift's album mention sparked excitement and speculation
The mention of the pub in Swift's 11th studio album has sparked excitement among the pub staff, some of whom are self-proclaimed "Swifties." Cowley shared with PA news agency, "We've been really excited about the whole thing. We've got people on the team who are definitely Swifties and they alerted us to it before anything." Fans have also started speculating whether Swift's reference is linked to her past relationships with English actor Joe Alwyn or The 1975 frontman Matty Healy.
Pub's response to Swift's mention went viral
In response to the fan speculation, The Black Dog team released a humorous TikTok video that quickly gained over 10,000 views. The video features a staff member trying to figure out if Swift was referring to Alwyn or Healy in her song. When fans suggested checking the pub's security footage for any sightings of Swift or her ex-boyfriends, Cowley responded, "Part of the mystery is actually part of the fun."
Pub prepares for influx of Swift fans amid album buzz
Anticipating a surge in customers due to Swift's mention, Cowley revealed that the pub has increased its security measures and is preparing for more fans during June and August when Swift will perform at Wembley Stadium. "Last night we were turning people away because we were at total mass capacity. We're expecting a lot more. We're all hands on deck, getting more team members in, getting security at the door to help manage the big crowds," she said.
Swift fans and The Black Dog share mutual appreciation
Cowley expressed gratitude for the supportive Swift fans who have visited the pub, saying: "The atmosphere was just really great. They want to come in, they want to see where the song is based. The fans are really supportive. They want to come in and just be a part of it." She also extended an invitation to Swift, saying, "When she's next here, please stop by, we would love to have a fun thing with her."
Revisit the lyrics from the song
The 17th track (part of the second bonus version) from TTPD is called The Black Dog. Selected lyrics are, "I am someone who until recent events you share your secrets with and your location. You forgot to turn it off. And so I watch as you walk into some bar called The Black Dog." Other songs on the album are My Boy Only Breaks His Favorite Toys, Down Bad, But Daddy I Love Him, and The Alchemy, among others.
