Teddy Swims: The Journey from Heartbreak to Fatherhood

Teddy Swims shares insights into his life, the success of his music, and the joy of impending fatherhood in this compelling story.

Teddy Swims, the Georgia native whose real name is Jaten Dimsdale, is riding a wave of success with his breakout single "Lose Control," which has impressively sold 1.8 million copies in the UK alone. Despite a four-nomination loss at the MTV Awards last September, Teddy found personal victory as he reflected on a special moment that night: he and his partner, singer-songwriter Raiche Wright, conceived their child. “We’re due in June and things are great. I think we’re gonna crush it,” he shares, radiating excitement about his upcoming fatherhood.

While fans might associate Teddy with the themes of heartbreak and dysfunction prevalent in his music—such as in the album "I've Tried Everything But Therapy"—he is now stepping into a chapter of newfound contentment. His latest album, "I've Tried Everything But Therapy Part 2," which releases this Friday, reflects this shift. “I’ve learned that love doesn’t have to be this thing of high highs and low lows,” he explains, aiming to showcase his progress and inspire listeners to seek brighter days ahead.

The relationship dynamics that colored his first album were mined from deeply personal experiences, revealing the struggles he faced while navigating a toxic partnership. Teddy's lyrics poignantly express his journey towards healing and self-acceptance, such as in the track "I saved my life when I showed you the door." In stark contrast, his new music exudes an emotional warmth and sincerity, from the heartfelt acoustic ballad "If You Ever Change Your Mind" to the reflective track "Are You Real."

Musically, his sophomore effort retains the soulful essence of his previous work, infused with contemporary pop elements. Teddy's artistry has been influenced by his diverse and often challenging upbringing. Raised in a tumultuous family environment, he credits his father as a powerful role model, imparting lessons of emotional vulnerability and unconditional love.

The road to success for Teddy has been anything but conventional—he's built his career through sheer determination, crisscrossing the country, busking, and garnering attention the “old-fashioned way.” His journey has included viral successes like his cover of Shania Twain’s "You’re Still The One," which amassed hundreds of millions of views on YouTube, leading to a record deal that transformed his life.

As he embarks on the next stage of his artistic journey, Teddy is emotionally preparing himself for a European arena tour and the personal challenges of being a new father. Embracing his sensitive side, he emphasizes the importance of expressing emotions, saying, "Every day I try to cry a little bit. It’s just pain leaving the body." He reflects on the profound connection he shares with his own father, highlighting the strength found in sharing love and vulnerability.

Excitement surrounds his future as a father and the impending arrival of his child, with his father ready to embrace grandparenthood. "He’s doing backflips," Teddy laughs, contemplating the legacy of love and kindness he aims to cultivate in his own family. As his music progresses to new heights, Teddy Swims remains anchored in his roots, prepared to navigate the waters of both fame and family life.