Taylor Swift has followed up the release of her new tune, ‘You Need To Calm Down’, with a surprise performance at New York‘s The Stonewall Inn to commemorate 50 years since the 1969 Stonewall Uprising that helped launched the modern gay rights movement.
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Per PEOPLE, the event was co-hosted by Modern Family star Jesse Tyler Ferguson who both introduced and performed an acoustic version of Swift’s ‘Shake It Off’ with the artist on stage.
“There’s probably six drag queens in this building who could sing this better than me — or a really fantastic Taylor Swift impersonator, or even Taylor Swift,” Ferguson teased. “She’s not here don’t worry why would she be here – because she’s amazing!”
And, cue Taylor.
“So I heard that you wanted somebody to accompany you on guitar,” she said.
The celebration was co-hosted by drag queen Diva Jackie Dupree, with performances by Sara Bareilles, Gavin Creel, Lea DeLaria, and VINCINT.
On Twitter, Ferguson posted a lil’ clip from the event and it’s just a tad adorable.
“Look who came to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Stonewall at the Stonewall Inn,” he tweeted. “Taylor Swift, you are a gem. Thank you for everything you do for the LGBTQ community. We love you!”
I’m so happy I don’t have to keep this secret any longer. Look who came to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Stonewall at the Stonewall Inn. @taylorswift13, you are a gem. Thank you for everything you do for the LGBTQ community. We ❤️ you! 🌈 https://t.co/ICE2b3arxU
— Jesse Tyler Ferguson (he/him/his) (@jessetyler) June 15, 2019
Ray of light / YouTuber Tyler Oakley also shared a video from the night.
hello me & @jessetyler & @taylorswift13 at the stonewall inn!! WHAT pic.twitter.com/wd2EVuTbhw
— tyler oakley 👹 (@tyleroakley) June 15, 2019
Swift’s new anti-hate anthem has reportedly sparked a surge in donations to GLAAD (Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation), which she mentions in her lyric video. As first reported by TMZ, the organisation has been receiving a string of $13 donations – Swift’s favourite number.
did @taylorswift13 just — pic.twitter.com/MkfkkBComN
— GLAAD (@glaad) June 14, 2019
GLAAD Director of Talent Engagement Anthony Ramos told TMZ: “The fact she continues to use her platform and music to support the LGBTQ community and the Equality Act is a true sign of being an ally.”
Ramos also revealed the artist made a “very generous” donation to the organisation earlier this month.
You can listen to Swift’s new song below.
