When, where to watch Taylor Swift's 'Opalite' music video online
What's the story
Taylor Swift has announced the release of a new music video for her song Opalite from her latest album The Life of a Showgirl. The pop star revealed the news on her website, which features a countdown clock for the premiere on Friday (February 6) at 8:00am ET or 6:30pm IST. This will be the second visual from the album after The Fate of Ophelia.
Release details
Is it the same version shown during theatrical release?
The Opalite music video will first premiere on Spotify and Apple Music (premium mode) on Friday morning, before being made available on YouTube on Sunday (February 8). It's unclear if this version of the video is the same as what was shown during the album's theatrical release party or a different one. The Life of a Showgirl debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart after its October 3 release and spent a total of 12 weeks atop it.
Chart changes
YouTube's new chart methodology impacted Swift's decision
Swift's decision to premiere the Opalite music video on Spotify and Apple Music comes after YouTube's December announcement about withdrawing its streaming data from all Billboard charts. This change followed Billboard's December 16 announcement of a new chart methodology that favors subscription streams over ad-supported ones, reflecting changing consumer behaviors and increased revenue from streaming in the industry. The new ratio for paid/subscription streams against ad-supported streams is 1:2.5, reduced from the previous 1:3 ratio.
Merchandise
Limited-edition vinyl single of 'Opalite' available for pre-order
In addition to the music video, Swift has also announced a limited-edition 7-inch vinyl single of Opalite. The vinyl is available for pre-order on her web store until February 6 at 7:00pm ET or until supplies last. It is expected to ship on or around February 9. The song Opalite peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making it one of Swift's most successful singles to date.