Two married Swifties embarked on a mission to recreate all of Taylor Swift's album covers after the singer announced her new record "The Tortured Poets Department" at the Grammys in February.
Charlie Bird — the "major Swiftie" of the two, according to husband Ryan Clifford — had the idea after Swift made the surprise announcement while accepting the Grammy for best pop vocal album.
The project is a continuation of what the couple had done for Halloween last year — dressing up as Swift and her boyfriend Travis Kelce. Charlie shaved his head and Ryan had painstakingly recreated the red "Reputation" costume Swift wore during her Eras Tour in four days' time — with sequins galore.
They documented the project for their YouTube page and when they posted the final results on social media, their followers loved it.
"And they loved seeing Ryan as Taylor Swift," Charlie told CBS News, to which Ryan replied with a laugh: "They love watching me make a fool of myself."
In 11 posts on their Instagram accounts, the couple is covering all 16 years of her career. Starting from her debut album "Taylor Swift" in 2006 to her latest release, they dedicate a few days to prepare for each shoot. They carefully select outfits from new clothes or their existing wardrobe, create backdrops, and scout nearby locations to recreate the iconic looks.
With just themselves, a ring light, and an iPhone, they invest six to eight hours daily to replicate one album cover.
"Taylor Swift has sported a variety of looks and hairstyles over the years," Charlie mentioned. "Every day, we strive to recreate them in a manner that truly embodies Taylor Swift's essence."
"I'm fortunate to have long, curly hair, which adds to the versatility," Ryan chimed in, as they both shared a laugh.
The couple attributes Swift's widespread appeal to her relatable lyrics. As a clinical therapist, Charlie mentioned that some of his clients use Swift's songs to express their emotions.
"It's a testament to how she has become a significant figure for many people, helping us connect with our emotions," Charlie expressed.
Ryan, a digital marketer, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the aspirational aspect of Swift's music.
"She possesses an incredible mind that crafts these captivating lyrics," he expressed. "However, at the core, she is just a young woman. We all empathize with her, thinking, 'Oh, she's a girl. She's navigating through it all.'"
The pair participated in two concerts last year as part of the Eras Tour. Charlie shared with CBS News that it felt like a voyage back to his teenage years. "1989," he remarked, is the quintessential pop record.
"I particularly enjoy moving to 'Style,'" he disclosed, without diminishing her other musical works. "There's something about the 'Reputation' collection that is simply... impactful."
What would Charlie's reaction be if he ever encountered Swift? Aside from losing his composure, of course, Ryan teased his partner.
"Hopefully, I could maintain my composure," Charlie chuckled. "It has genuinely been remarkable to witness her evolution, tackling challenges and emerging more resilient from them."
"I appreciate her willingness to share that creative talent, as it has motivated me to be more innovative and connected with myself as well."
The duo eagerly anticipated recreating the latest album, with Charlie suggesting it would likely be the most amusing for Ryan to partake in.
"There will be a lot of laughter — at my expense," Ryan quipped with a smile.
