Teddy Swims shot to fame via his Youtube Channel that showcased his mastery at covering well-known songs. He was then signed by Warner Records and rose to prominence with his single ‘Lose Control’ which reached the top-ten in various international territories and topped the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. Fast-forward to 2024, and Teddy Swims, who hails from the heart of the US state of Georgia, spent the past month touring around Australia for his sold out ‘I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy’ tour to excited fans all across the country. 

Well known for his support of fans and their covering of his songs, it was Teddy’s arrival in Brisbane, and subsequent encounter with a young busker that broke the internet; his invitation for her to come sing with him on stage sealing Teddy Swims as a genuine artist that backs his fans and helps others fulfil their dreams.

The energy was palpable inside Melbourne’s Margaret Court Arena, as fans were eager and excited to witness the highly anticipated performance from Teddy Swims. Before the spotlight could shine on the man of the hour, it was  the sweet and soulful, Meg Mac, who performed as his support. Meg had the audience on their feet swaying back and forth to her tunes, ‘Roll Up Your Sleeves’ and ‘Low Blows’. Accompanied by powerhouse singer Hannah McInerney and alongside the sharp riffs from the guitar strings, Meg created an atmosphere that was the perfect set up for what was to follow.

A warm ambience of light glistened in the distance and within no time, Teddy Swims had entered middle stage and was standing there to raucous applause, creating his unmistakable cowboy hat silhouette. Teddy’s powerhouse vocals took over the microphone and the night had begun.  

Building upon his heartfelt connections to the songs and people standing in front of him, Teddy expressed his utter joy and bliss to each and every person for being his “happiness, pride and joy”. He was grateful to be with people who loved him dearly and he sent out a special appreciation “to all the Moms out there, doing their best for the world”. 

Teddy’s voice is so powerful yet so tender, unbelievably mesmerising and  nothing short of perfection in the way he delivers his vocals and performance with imagination and honesty. Every word is sung with feeling and purpose. You can tell that he loves every part of performing; showing a dedication to hitting every note, playing harmoniously with his band (and even enjoying the sculling of a good ol’ Aussie shoey, for good measure).

I also admired the way he took his time to interact with the crowd with every opportunity that was given to him. He topped off his performance by concluding with his classic hit songs, ‘The Door’ and ‘Lose Control’. The latter saw the audience throw up their hands up as millions of tiny pieces of confetti rained down upon them. 

As Teddy Swims continues to skyrocket through the charts and amaze those around him with such warmth and love, there is no doubt that we will be seeing him for his return trip down under soon.

Written by Ishani Buff & edited by Lara Antonelli-Leorke