Taylor Swift makes history, inducted into Songwriters Hall of Fame

Global pop superstar Taylor Swift has once again made history, becoming the youngest woman ever to be inducted into the prestigious Songwriters Hall of Fame at age 36.

The 55th annual induction ceremony was held in New York City on Friday, June 12 (local time), where Swift delivered an emotional 21-minute speech, tearfully thanking her family for their sacrifices. She was introduced by legendary filmmaker Steven Spielberg.

Reflecting on her journey, Swift revealed that her family moved from Pennsylvania to Nashville when she was just 14 years old so she could pursue her craft in the heart of the songwriting industry.

"Even though words are supposed to be my thing, I will never be able to express my gratitude to you guys for doing that for me. You're the reason I'm here tonight," an emotional Swift said.

The 36-year-old singer described songwriting as the only aspect of her career that came naturally and instinctively.

"No one taught me how to do it. I had to be taught how to entertain a crowd, learn choreography, be less annoying, navigate the industry and fiercely protect my own sanity. But songwriting for me was pretty much the only thing I naturally did," she said.

Key songs recognised by the Hall of Fame include 'All Too Well (10 Minute Version)', 'Blank Space', 'Anti-Hero', 'Love Story' and 'The Last Great American Dynasty'.

Swift is the youngest woman to receive this honour, though Stevie Wonder remains the youngest overall inductee, having been inducted at age 33 in 1983.

Alongside Swift, other inductees this year included Alanis Morissette, Kenny Loggins, Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley of KISS, and Christopher 'Tricky' Stewart.