Is The Timing Of Taylor Swift's New Album A Shot At Harry Styles?

Taylor Swift announced her plans to drop a surprise new album, Folklore, at midnight on July 24, 2020, featuring collaborations with the likes of Bon Iver, The National's Aaron Dessner, and Grammy-winning producer, Jack Antonoff. The singer said the new record is an opportunity for her to pour out "all of my whims, dreams, fears" while in isolation amid the ongoing global pandemic. She wrote on Instagram, "Most of the things I had planned this summer didn't end up happening, but there is something I hadn't planned on that DID happen. And that thing is my 8th studio album, folklore. Surprise."

But coincidentally, Swift announced her new album on One Direction's 10th anniversary, leading some Twitter users to believe her record is a subtle shot at her ex-boyfriend, Harry Styles. After all, the musician did release his Fine Line album on Swift's 30th birthday on Dec. 13, 2019 — and considering the pair dated for a few months in 2012 and early 2013, according to Teen Vogue, it's safe to assume Styles knew exactly what he was doing when he chose the date. So did Swift do the same...?

Unlike her previous albums, Taylor Swift decided to drop Folklore without any notice. It also happened to be on the same day her ex-boyfriend, Harry Styles, and his One Direction band members celebrated the group's 10th anniversary on social media. But was it done on purpose? Some fans say yes.

"Harry Styles: drops album on Taylor Swift's birthday Taylor Swift: two people can play that game," one person joked. Someone else called the theory a "great power move" on Swift's part.

However, Swift's announcement post tells a different story. The singer said she "would've overthought when to release this music at the 'perfect' time" but chose not to because "the times we're living in keep reminding me that nothing is guaranteed." The Pennsylvania native, who's become known for dropping "easter eggs" in her music videos, also added, "My gut is telling me that if you make something you love, you should just put it out into the world. That's the side of uncertainty I can get on board with."

Although some people think her new album release date is payback for Styles dropping Fine Line on her birthday, it's most likely just a very huge coincidence that has absolutely nothing to do with the musician.