Grammy Award-winning artist Taylor Swift has awarded her Eras Tour team a staggering Sh 25 million ($197 million) in bonuses for their dedication and hard work over the past two years.
In a viral clip shared by Entertainment Tonight, Swift spoke to her team before handing out envelopes containing the bonuses, praising their commitment and emphasising that as the tour’s profits grew, so did their rewards.
“Bonus day is so important because it sets a precedent with the Eras Tour. It is very important for me because they are the people who work on the road. If the tour grosses more, they get more, and they work really hard. They are the best at what they do,” she said.
The employees rewarded included musicians, truck drivers, caterers, instrument techs, merch team, lighting and sound crews, production staff and assistants, according to People.
Also awarded were carpenters, dancers, band members, security personnel, choreographers, pyrotechnics, riggers, hair and make-up artists, wardrobe staff, physical therapists, and video teams.
Swift revealed that she had handwritten the notes for each team member, describing the process as a meaningful way to acknowledge the personal sacrifices her team made.
“It took me a couple of weeks, but it’s fun to write the notes. It’s fun to think about everybody’s life and the time off they are going to have—their family and children they have been away from for months. Making that worthwhile for them. It feels like Christmas morning when you finally get to say ‘Thank you.’ Everybody has the same message on their card,” she said.
Her handwritten letter read, “We’ve traveled the world like we set out to do. We’ve dazzled the crowds, but we’ve missed family too. My full gratitude doesn’t come from a bank, but here’s [bonus check amount] dollars just to say thanks. Love, Taylor.”
The generous gesture drew widespread admiration on social media.
Hayward wrote on Instagram, “When you have more than you need, build a longer table, not a higher fence.”
Jay Klay added, “And this is how you use your money from stardom correctly. It takes an entire team to make one person famous and an icon. Mad respect for Taylor.”
Perry Russell commented, “…and let’s be clear… SHE’S BEEN TAKING CARE OF HER DANCERS LIKE THIS FOR YEARS!! She’s one of the few mega artists who do.”