A recent study of a stop on “The Eras Tour” made headlines when a team of researchers identified the five loudest moments of the event. Led by Gabrielle Tepp of Caltech, the research team published their findings in the Seismological Research Letters, revealing the seismic impact of a recent performance on Taylor Swift’s tour. The study was conducted at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, California, where strong motion sensors were placed ahead of the concert on August 5, 2023.
The sensors measured the seismic signature of each song and the strength of the tremors produced. The team, with the help of regional seismic networks, discovered that the strongest seismic activity occurred during Swift’s performance of “Shake it Off.” The study reported that the 70,000 fans at the stadium created a seismic wave with a magnitude of 0.851, likely due to their dancing and jumping.
The research also found that other songs that generated high-energy moments during “The Eras Tour” included “You Belong With Me,” “Love Story,” “Cruel Summer,” and “22.” Comparisons were made to a Metallica concert at the same venue, highlighting the unique characteristics of each performance.
Overall, the study concluded that Taylor Swift’s choreographed show and consistent beat range in her live performances contributed to the seismic activity observed, distinguishing her concerts from other events. This instance was not the first time fans of the pop star had caused seismic events during her performances.
Taylor Swift is set to continue her tour in Europe in May 2024, starting in Paris, France. The study has sparked interest in the seismic effects of live music events and the impact of enthusiastic fans on the environment.