The rumors were true! Taylor Swift delighted fans in Kansas City by bringing back a beloved piece of her musical history: the iconic blue koi fish guitar. This special instrument, which had been temporarily removed from its display case at the Country Music Hall of Fame, made a surprise appearance during the Eras Tour, sparking excitement and nostalgia among Swifties and guitar enthusiasts alike.
Speculation began swirling when the guitar was noticed missing from its place at the Hall of Fame. A sign indicating its “temporary removal” and a video clip of the guitar being taken away fueled anticipation among fans, many of whom correctly guessed its return to the stage.
During her second night in Kansas City on Saturday, July 8th, Taylor Swift confirmed the fan theories. To the roaring cheers of the crowd, she unveiled the koi fish guitar to perform “Last Kiss,” a deeply cherished track from her Speak Now album, as one of the evening’s surprise songs. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect, coinciding with the recent release of Speak Now (Taylor’s Version) on July 7th, adding an extra layer of significance to the performance.
The koi fish guitar holds a special place in Taylor Swift’s history, most notably as a staple of her Speak Now World Tour from 2011-2012. During those shows, Swift would often perform an intimate, seated rendition of “Last Kiss” while playing this unique instrument. Crafted by Pete Davies Jr. of Taylor Guitars, this custom-built acoustic guitar is distinguished by its exquisite Japanese koi fish inlays, adorning both the guitar’s top and fingerboard. These delicate inlays make it instantly recognizable and a favorite among fans.
Beyond the stage, the Taylor Swift Koi Fish Guitar has also made appearances in other aspects of her artistry. Eagle-eyed viewers might recognize it from her 2022 “Anti-Hero” music video. In one memorable scene, Swift is seen strumming the guitar as her mischievous alter ego wreaks havoc nearby, smashing another guitar – a symbolic moment that further cemented the koi fish guitar’s iconic status within Swift’s visual and musical narrative.
As the Eras Tour continues its domestic leg through August 9th, before heading overseas to Europe, Australia, and Asia, the reappearance of the koi fish guitar serves as a powerful reminder of Taylor Swift’s connection to her past and her fans. For guitar players and Swifties alike, the blue koi fish guitar is more than just an instrument; it’s a symbol of a beloved musical era and a testament to Taylor Swift’s enduring artistry.
