Teddy Swims, Republik, HNL, HI, September 08, 2022
The bearded, tattooed, Georgia native, Teddy Swims was an artist that took off during the COVID lockdown. In June 2019 he first began posting covers on Youtube. After covering Michael Jackson’s “Rock With You,” which has accumulated close to 8 million views, Swims shot covers of Amy Winehouse (Valerie), Billie Eilish (idonywannabeyouanymore), Lewis Capaldi (Someone You Loved), Marvin Gaye (Mercy Mercy), and Shania Twain (You’re The One). On each of these, Teddy Swims added a mix of gospel, soul, funk, R&B, and country, mixed with electronic grooves and pop hooks. Swims has since been signed to Warner Records and released a collection of originals that complement his undeniable talent.
BAMP Project brought Teddy Swims to The Republik, in Honolulu, for two shows which sold out almost instantaneously. The first night was jam-packed. The tight space didn’t bother the good-natured crowd who were excited to see Teddy Swims perform for the first time ever in Hawaii. A little after 9 PM, Swims came out on stage with his band.
Dressed in a black velour long sleeved shirt, Gucci baseball cap, black shorts with black socks and no shoes, Swims kicked off the night with an energy packed “Till I Change Your Mind.” Fans were immediately drawn in and surrendered to Swims. The irresistible Motown groove in “Broke” and the charismatic delivery of “Dose” displayed his soul and Motown influences.
After transcendent versions of “My Bad” and “Two Moods,” Swims brought out a stool and slowed things down for a four song acoustic set. Swims shone during this portion of the show. The singer serenaded the crowd with “Amazing” followed by Shania Twain’s “You’re Still The One.”
“Simple Things” and “All That Really Matters” concluded this portion of the set which allowed the singer to display his mesmerizing vocal range. No autotune or theatrics were needed. The night rounded out with “Rivers” and “911.” The anthemic “Bed On Fire” concluded the performance with Swims belting out each lyric as the crowd fired them right back.
Teddy Swims performance was outstanding. The singer proved he’s more than a collection of viral videos. His set was filled with an impressive library of original work which demonstrated his ability to sing almost anything blending modern R&B with country and classic soul. Swims booming voice and authentic connection to the crowd shined throughout the evening. Hopefully it won’t be long until Teddy Swims returns to Hawaii. One thing is certain, he’ll be returning to a venue which is much larger than The Republik.
Find more info and tour dates, here: https://www.teddyswims.com
Setlist: Intro, Till I Change Your Mind, Broke, Dose, For The Rest Of Your Life, My Bad, Two Moods, Devil In A Dress, Acoustic Amazing, You’re Still The One, Simple Things, All That Really Matters, Band Returns Rivers, The Plan, 911, Love For A Minute, Bed On Fire