Not many know that Marjorie Finlay, Taylor Swift's maternal grandmother, was a gifted opera singer and television personality who left a lasting mark on Latin America's music scene.
Born on October 5, 1928, in Memphis, Tennessee, Marjorie developed a passion for music early on. She earned a bachelor's degree in music from Lindenwood College in 1949, setting the stage for a remarkable career.
A fairytale beginning
Her career took off in 1950 after winning a singing competition on ABC's radio show 'Music With the Girls.' This victory led to a 15-month tour across the United States. She later moved to New York, where she refined her vocal technique under the guidance of renowned musicians.
In 1952, Marjorie married Robert Finlay. Due to his work commitments, the couple relocated to several Latin American countries. They first settled in Havana, Cuba, before moving to Puerto Rico, where Marjorie fully immersed herself in the local arts scene.
In Puerto Rico, she rose to fame as the host of her own television show and served as the master of ceremonies for 'El Show Pan-Americano' on APA-TV, broadcast from Santurce. Her charisma and talent earned her widespread recognition, and she performed at nightclubs and cultural events, cementing her reputation as a celebrated soprano.
Beyond Puerto Rico, Marjorie toured South America, performing in countries such as Venezuela and Mexico. She also released a well-received album around this time.
A bond strengthened by music
Marjorie's influence on Taylor Swift is undeniable. Taylor has often spoken about her grandmother's impact on her musical journey.
This connection is beautifully captured in the song 'Marjorie' from Taylor's 2020 album 'Evermore.' The track pays tribute to Marjorie, featuring recordings of her operatic voice, creating a heartfelt link between grandmother and granddaughter through music.
The lyrics of 'Marjorie' highlight the wisdom and life lessons passed down, emphasizing the importance of cherishing shared moments. Fans have praised the song's emotional depth and sincerity, making it one of Taylor's most touching compositions.
Lyrics to Taylor Swift's song, 'Marjorie:'
Never be so kind, you forget to be clever
Never be so clever, you forget to be kind
And if I didn't know better
I'd think you were talking to me now
If I didn't know better
I'd think you were still around
What died didn't stay dead
What died didn't stay dead
You're alive, you're alive in my head
What died didn't stay dead
What died didn't stay dead
You're alive, so alive
Never be so polite, you forget your power
Never wield such power, you forget to be polite
And if I didn't know better
I'd think you were listening to me now
If I didn't know better
I'd think you were still around
What died didn't stay dead
What died didn't stay dead
You're alive, you're alive in my head
What died didn't stay dead
What died didn't stay dead
You're alive, so alive
The autumn chill that wakes me up
You loved the amber skies so much
Long limbs and frozen swims
You'd always go past where our feet could touch
And I complained the whole way there
The car ride back and up the stairs
I should've asked you questions
I should've asked you how to be
Asked you to write it down for me
Should've kept every grocery store receipt
'Cause every scrap of you would be taken from me
Watched as you signed your name Marjorie
All your closets of backlogged dreams
And how you left them all to me
What died didn't stay dead
What died didn't stay dead
You're alive, you're alive in my head
What died didn't stay dead
What died didn't stay dead
You're alive, so alive
And if I didn't know better
I'd think you were singing to me now
If I didn't know better
I'd think you were still around
I know better
But I still feel you all around
I know better
But you're still around
A Lasting Legacy
Marjorie Finlay passed away on June 1, 2003, in Reading, Pennsylvania. However, her legacy endures—not only in her contributions to the world of music but also through her granddaughter, Taylor Swift, who continues to honor her memory.
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