50 Facts About Teddy Swims

Early Life and Influences

Teddy Swims, born Jaten Collin Dimsdale, has a fascinating background that shaped his musical journey.

1. Teddy Swims was born on September 25, 1992, in Conyers, Georgia.
2. He grew up in a football-crazy family, which initially influenced his early interests.
3. His father introduced him to soul music, exposing him to legends like Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, and Al Green.
4. Teddy's musical influences also include old hip hop and country music from artists like George Strait and Alan Jackson.

Transition from Football to Music

Teddy's path to music wasn't straightforward. He initially focused on football before discovering his true passion.

5. Teddy Swims attended Salem High School, where he played football.
6. He later discovered his passion for musical theater, performing in musicals such as Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Rent.
7. His experience in high-school theater was pivotal, leading him to play instruments like the piano and ukulele.
8. Teddy made the tough decision to quit football and pursue musical theater, a choice that initially upset his mother but later gained her support.

Musical Theater and Early Career

Teddy's high school theater experience laid the foundation for his music career.

9. He appeared in various musicals, including Damn Yankees, Children of Eden, and Much Ado About Nothing.
10. His favorite show remains Rent, which he can sing from start to finish.
11. After high school, Teddy attended cosmetology school but quickly realized he hated it and decided to pursue music full-time.
12. The stage name "Teddy Swims" comes from an acronym for "Someone Who Isn't Me Sometimes," reflecting his multifaceted personality.

Rise to Fame

Teddy's journey to fame began with YouTube covers and eventually led to a record deal.

13. Before gaining fame, Teddy was part of various bands in the Atlanta area, including WildHeart and Eris.
14. He initially attracted fans through song covers on his YouTube channel, starting with Michael Jackson's "Rock with You" in June 2019.
15. His cover of Shania Twain's "You're Still the One" became his most viewed video, accumulating 167 million views as of January 2024.
16. After releasing his single "Night Off" independently in July 2019, he signed a record deal with Warner Records in December 2019.

Breakthrough and Debut EP

Teddy's hard work paid off with the release of his debut EP and breakthrough single.

17. In 2022, Teddy released his EP Sleep Is Exhausting, featuring singles like "Dose" and "Devil in a Dress."
18. His single "Lose Control" from the album I’ve Tried Everything but Therapy (Part 1) reached the top-ten in several countries and topped the Billboard Hot 100 in 2024.
19. The album I’ve Tried Everything but Therapy (Part 1) was released in 2023 and included collaborations with artists like Maren Morris and Meghan Trainor.

Collaborations and Tours

Teddy's collaborations and tours have further solidified his place in the music industry.

20. He has collaborated with notable artists such as Armin van Buuren & Matoma, X Ambassadors, and Elley Duhé.
21. In 2023, he announced his I’ve Tried Everything but Therapy international headline tour, including shows in the UK, Ireland, Australia, Germany, Netherlands, and New Zealand.
22. Teddy performed at major music festivals like BottleRock, Bamboozle, Boston Calling, TRNSMT, and Latitude in 2023.
23. He opened for the rock band Greta Van Fleet on their tour to support their new album Starcatcher.

Recognition and Personal Growth

Teddy's talent and hard work have earned him recognition and personal growth.

24. In 2024, MTV named Teddy Swims their "Push Artist of February."
25. Despite his soul and R&B roots, Teddy has ventured into electronic dance music (EDM) collaborations with producers like ILLENIUM and MK.
26. Teddy views songwriting as a form of therapy, helping him process his emotions and experiences.
27. He has mentioned watching YouTube videos to develop his vocal technique, which has been crucial in his musical journey.

Personal Life and Interests

Teddy's personal life and interests add depth to his public persona.

28. He is a lifelong fan of Star Wars and co-wrote a music theater rendition of the iconic film in high school.
29. Born into a Pentecostal pastor's family, Teddy's upbringing has influenced his spiritual outlook.
30. Despite his focus on music, Teddy remains a football enthusiast, having played the sport for ten years.
31. His first musical theater performance was in Damn Yankees, where he had only two lines but left a lasting impression on his mother.

Career Advantages and Reflections

Teddy's career has benefited from his maturity and self-awareness.

32. Entering the music industry as an adult has given Teddy an advantage over teen stars, making him more prepared for fame.
33. He credits his current success to being in a clear space mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
34. A close friendship with UK dance music producer Stuart Crichton led to electronic music collaborations.
35. Teddy describes the EDM collaboration process as starting with ballads and then adding an EDM spin.

Major Performances and Media Appearances

Teddy's performances and media appearances have expanded his reach.

36. His performances at major festivals like BottleRock and TRNSMT have further solidified his reputation.
37. In 2023, Teddy appeared on The Voice, where he duetted “Lose Control” with Kelly Clarkson on the season finale.
38. During his appearances, he had the opportunity to meet Elmo, which he described as a surreal experience.

Songwriting and Musical Style

Teddy's songwriting and musical style set him apart in the industry.

39. His experience in musical theater has taught him valuable lessons about performance and emotion.
40. The album I’ve Tried Everything but Therapy (Part 1) explores existential themes, reflecting on painful memories and transformative experiences.
41. Teddy views songwriting as a therapeutic process, helping him understand his subconscious and communicate his true feelings.
42. His music blends genres like R&B, soul, country, and pop, shattering traditional genre constraints.

Viral Success and Record Deal

Teddy's viral success on YouTube played a crucial role in his early career.

43. His viral presence on YouTube was instrumental in his early success, catching the attention of Warner Records.
44. Warner Records signed him in December 2019, recognizing his potential and the impact of his cover videos.
45. The EP Sleep Is Exhausting was released on November 4, 2022, featuring singles that showcased his musical range and emotional depth.

Future Prospects

Teddy Swims' unique sound and collaborative approach make him an exciting prospect in the music industry.

46. The single “Lose Control” marked a significant breakthrough moment, reaching the top-ten in several countries and topping the Billboard Hot 100 in 2024.
47. Known for his collaborative spirit, Teddy has worked with a variety of artists across different genres.
48. His international headline tour in 2023 included stops in the UK, Ireland, Australia, Germany, Netherlands, and New Zealand.
49. Performing at major festivals like BottleRock and TRNSMT has been a highlight of his career.
50. Opening for Greta Van Fleet on their tour provided valuable experience and exposure, helping him transition from smaller venues to larger stages.

Teddy Swims: A Rising Star

Teddy Swims' journey from a football enthusiast to a renowned singer-songwriter is nothing short of inspiring. His unique blend of R&B, soul, country, and pop has captivated audiences worldwide. From his early days in musical theater to his viral YouTube covers, Teddy's passion and versatility shine through. His debut album, I’ve Tried Everything but Therapy (Part 1), and hit single "Lose Control" have solidified his place in the music industry. Collaborations with artists like Maren Morris and Meghan Trainor showcase his broad appeal. Teddy's international tours and festival performances highlight his growing global fanbase. With his soulful voice and genre-bending music, Teddy Swims is poised for continued success. Keep an eye on this rising star as he continues to break boundaries and connect with fans through his heartfelt music.