Taylor Swift has unveiled three additional album covers for her highly anticipated album Midnights, set for release in October. These newly revealed designs will only be available for pre-sale over the next seven days in both vinyl and CD formats. While the album’s main cover was introduced earlier, these limited-edition variants are steeped in 1970s aesthetics, with visual elements that subtly—and sometimes overtly—reference the era.
Among the defining details are a touch-tone phone, an LP jacket casually resting on the floor, and wood paneling that serves as the backdrop for both the covers and Swift’s webstore landing page. The presence of the loose vinyl record on the carpet—a somewhat reckless way to treat an LP—further enhances the retro feel. The overall mood of the images suggests a wistful nod to the decade, with Swift appearing pensive and introspective in each shot. In one particular pose, she rests her hand against her forehead in what could be interpreted as a moment of deep contemplation—perhaps a tongue-in-cheek exaggeration of emotions, a signature move for the singer-songwriter.
Dedicated fans have noted an interesting connection between the colors of the four vinyl editions—jade green, blood moon, mahogany, and midnight blue—and the four hues featured on the clock face that appeared on Swift’s website following the MTV Video Music Awards. It was during the VMAs that Swift first announced the album’s completion, before later unveiling the title.
While Swift did not include a written statement in her latest announcement, she did share a TikTok video where she playfully interacts with the new covers. Some fans speculate that the vinyl records have already been manufactured ahead of the October 21 release, though the lightweight appearance of the covers in the video suggests they may still be prototypes.
With at least four different vinyl variants, four CD editions, and a cassette version, Midnights is poised to make a major impact on physical album sales. Unlike some of Swift’s past releases, all formats will be available on the same day, even in the midst of global supply chain challenges. This synchronized rollout could test the limits of how much physical music can be sold in a single week. Many devoted fans are already planning to purchase all available versions, potentially setting new sales records.
The exclusivity of three out of the four CD and vinyl variants—available for just one week—has created a sense of urgency among Swift’s followers. This marketing strategy brings to mind the classic political adage: “vote early and vote often,” as fans rush to secure their preferred editions.
Another factor that may drive high vinyl sales is the album’s single-LP format. Unlike Swift’s recent double LPs, Midnights manages to fit all 13 tracks onto a single record, making it more affordable for collectors and casual buyers alike. The marbled vinyl coloring also offers a more visually appealing alternative to the solid-color pressings of some of her past releases.
Even with these revelations, there may still be more surprises in store. According to the webstore’s description, each of the four variants will feature a unique photograph on the back cover, in addition to the distinctive front designs.
With the album’s content remaining largely under wraps, fans are left in anticipation, eager to uncover more details in the coming weeks. For Swift’s loyal supporters, the next seven weeks promise to be filled with excitement, speculation, and—most certainly—a frenzy of album collecting.
