Taylor Swift fans suspect there might be a specific reason behind the “Opalite” release delay on YouTube. The pop star will showcase the visual on Apple Music and Spotify Premium on Friday, February 6, at 8 a.m. ET. Post February 8, the “Opalite” music video will be available for fans to stream on YouTube.
Taylor Swift’s Opalite release delay on YouTube has fans talking
Taylor Swift’s fans speculate the reason for the “Opalite” release day on YouTube, while it will be available on other music streaming platforms. Four months after the release of her 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, fans are excited to watch the music video for “Opalite.”
“Opalite,” a song reportedly dedicated to Swift’s fiancé Kelce, is the second most-streamed track from the record on Spotify. The charming track has already garnered more than half a billion listens on Spotify since October 2025 (via Gold Derby).
While there is no official reason, fans speculate that the YouTube delay has to do with the Google-owned streamer withdrawing its metrics from Billboard’s charts. In simple terms, Swift is simply boosting “Opalite’s” chances of charting better.
Billboard does not count YouTube streams, which means if the song releases there first, the streams would not help the song chart on the Hot 100. Fans know that Swift has an impeccable record on Billboard’s Hot 100 and would like to continue her winning streak on the platform. Hence, the pop star will be unveiling the song first on Apple Music and Spotify Premium, hoping the streaming numbers will convert to Hot 100 success.
Additionally, Swifties can access the new “Opalite” blue pearlescent vinyl on Swift’s website. Preorders are available until February 6 at 7 p.m. ET, or until supplies last (via Variety).
Nonetheless, fans are excited to watch the music video for “Opalite.” One fan commented, “omg yesssss i’m SO excited. also this vinyl is STUNNING!!!!!!!” A second fan wrote, “Queen ready to serve again,” accompanied by a fire emoji.
