Singer-songwriter Taylor Swift, 36, has been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, becoming the youngest woman to receive the honour.

The recognition comes 20 years after the release of her debut single, “Tim McGraw”, which introduced the singer-songwriter to audiences in 2006.

During the induction ceremony, Swift delivered an emotional speech, thanking filmmaker Steven Spielberg, who introduced her at the event.

Reflecting on Spielberg’s influence, Swift said his storytelling and creative vision had inspired her to trust her imagination and pursue ambitious artistic ideas throughout her career.

She recalled that when organisers asked whom she would like to present the honour, Spielberg was her first choice. Swift said she was surprised and delighted when he agreed to attend the ceremony despite his busy schedule.

The singer also reflected on her songwriting journey, describing it as the most instinctive aspect of her career.

“If I look back at my entire career in music, songwriting was the easiest thing I ever did,” she said, adding that the process always felt natural to her despite the effort involved.

Widely regarded as one of the most influential songwriters of her generation, Swift has built a career spanning multiple genres and eras, earning critical acclaim for her storytelling and songwriting.