2015 ACM Milestone award
Finlay presents her daughter with the Academy of Country Music’s 2015 Milestone award:
For many years, I was her constant companion. And I witnessed a young girl with very few friends become one with many, learning to stand up for herself and the things she believes in. Being brave enough to explore her musical curiosity, having a voice against those who hate, and giving of herself to those in need. I am a very proud mom. I want to thank the entire music community for taking such good care of her. And to the fans: I know you love her as I love her. And for that, I thank you eternally.
Tops Greatest Female Leaders list
On Fortune‘s second annual list of the world’s greatest leaders, Swift comes in as the top female leader and sixth overall, just two spots behind Pope Francis. Fortune credits her ability to develop a strong social-media brand and her influence on the music industry.
. . .she has proved shrewder at honing a brand in the social media age than virtually any other person or company. And she’s done it without resorting to dumbed-down salacious gimmickry…Swift’s efforts to ensure she gets paid for her music could have a huge ripple effect on the way artists are compensated in an era of free streaming.
No. 1 Billboard 200 Chart
Swift’s 1989 album returns to No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart for a milestone 10th nonconsecutive week, making Swift just the second woman in history to earn two albums with at least ten weeks atop the list (the other being Whitney Houston).