How To Prepare for the ULTIMATE Midnights Listening Party

image courtesy of @sophiekathrynn via pinterest

If the date October 21st means nothing to you, feel free to stop reading right here. If you aren’t in the know, let us get you up to speed: Taylor Swift shocked the world (dare I say the entire universe?) with the announcement of her 10th studio album, Midnights, at the MTV Video Music Awards earlier this year. Through an Instagram post, Taylor put the many spiraling rumors to rest and addressed that this album will tell “the stories of 13 sleepless nights” scattered throughout her life. This means that this may be the most heart-wrenching album Taylor has ever released...if that’s even possible. We at Jerk want to prepare you emotionally, physically, and spiritually for the most epic listening experience with just a few simple suggestions to follow.

1. Bottle(s) of wine

If you’re over the age of 21 (or not...we don’t snitch), purchase the finest bottle – or maybe even a box – of Barefoot to enjoy alone or with friends. It will be a long night. As the songs go on, keep pouring. Bottoms up, bitches.

2. The group.

You must enjoy Midnights with the closest of your Swiftie companions. No fake fans should be allowed even close to the premises. This is a sacred space that deserves to be respected and honored.

3. Hors d'oeuvres

An album release party is a perfect excuse to pull out all the stops. No shitty dining hall food – instead, try a cheese and cracker board, fresh fruit, or a dessert tray. Venture out to Trader Joe’s or Wegman’s and obtain the most comforting snacks and treats to enjoy as you listen.

4. Outfits

Comfort is key at a listening party, but if you’re willing to commit, it’s the perfect opportunity for a theme. The Midnights color scheme is navy blue and gold, but you and your gang could dress as Taylor’s most iconic looks, album themes, or even as any of her iconic exes. If you’re not into a theme, put on your favorite cardigan, or the coziest Taylor Swift merch you own— we’re sure you have something hiding in your closet.

5. Album Predictions

While this one isn’t a required rule, but we think that making some pre-album predictions would be a great addition to any listening party. Rank the tracks based on their names and vibes, claim your favorite, and place your bets on what songs will be the best – or the most emotionally devastating. Personally, we have our money on the Taylor/Lana collab.

6. Tissues

This is an obvious one, but also one that must be mentioned. Even if you claim to be a soulless automaton, we can guarantee tears will be shed. Our girl has always had a way with words, and she claims that her new track, “Anti-Hero,” dives into her insecurities deeper than any song has before. And it’s not even a Track 5... needless to say, we’re scared. Hopefully, with the help of us here at Jerk, you feel a little more prepared to tackle release night.

We hope that you’re excited – we know that we are!