Discover How Teddy Swims Started Singing: Soul Influences and YouTube Rise

Teddy Swims, the soulful powerhouse behind hits like "Lose Control," didn't follow a traditional path to stardom. Born Jaten Collin Dimsdale on September 25, 1992, in Conyers, Georgia (just outside Atlanta), his journey from high school football fields to viral YouTube sensation and multi-platinum artist is a story of passion, family influence, and bold risks. Today, as fans gear up for his 2026 tour dates, discover the roots that shaped his raspy, genre-blending voice and how covers on YouTube launched him into the spotlight. For the latest concert tickets, check CapitalCityTickets.com for great deals on upcoming shows. How Teddy Swims Started Singing?

How Teddy Swims Started Singing?

Early Life and Soul Music Roots

Teddy Swims grew up in a football-obsessed Southern family, playing the sport for a decade. But music was always present thanks to his father, who introduced him to classic soul legends at an early age. Artists like Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, Al Green, and Keith Sweat filled the house, planting the seeds for Teddy's deep appreciation of R&B and soul. His maternal grandfather was a Pentecostal minister, adding gospel undertones to his musical foundation.

In high school at Salem High School in Conyers, a teacher encouraged Teddy and some football teammates to try musical theater. This pivot was life-changing—he starred in productions like Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Rent, honing his performance skills and stage presence. Offstage, he studied YouTube videos of his favorite singers to refine his vocal technique, self-teaching piano, ukulele, and more. "Singing is more acting than it is singing a lot of times," he's said, crediting theater for his emotive delivery.

From Bands to Full Commitment - How Teddy Swims Started Singing?

Post-high school, Teddy joined various Atlanta-area bands, experimenting across genres: '80s hair metal covers, post-hardcore (where he screamed as a lead vocalist), alternative rock, soul, funk, and even alternative country. He played in groups like Eris and WildHeart, building local experience but struggling to break through.

At 19, while attending cosmetology school (for hair styling), his father delivered pivotal advice: drop out, pursue music full-time without a backup plan, and trust it would work. Teddy followed that guidance, quitting school to focus on music. He worked restaurant jobs and gigged relentlessly, staying inspired through lean years.

The YouTube Breakthrough That Changed Everything

The turning point came in 2019. Encouraged by a producer friend and manager, Teddy started posting solo covers on YouTube under the name Teddy Swims ("Teddy" from his teddy-bear-like build; "Swims" as an acronym for "Someone Who Isn't Me Sometimes").

His first cover dropped in June 2019, but it was renditions like Michael Jackson's "Rock With You," Shania Twain's "You're Still the One" (which amassed over 167 million views), Mario's "Let Me Love You," George Michael's "I Can't Make You Love Me," and others that exploded. Filmed in a simple bedroom setup, these raw, soulful takes showcased his versatile, raspy voice blending R&B, pop, country, and more.

The viral success was rapid: millions of views, a growing subscriber base (now over 3 million), and industry buzz. In just six months—from his first post in June 2019 to December 2019—Warner Records signed him. This quick rise proved the power of online platforms for independent artists.

From Covers to Chart-Topping Originals

Post-signing, Teddy released his debut single "Picky" in 2020, followed by EPs and his breakthrough album I've Tried Everything but Therapy (Part 1) in 2023. Hits like "Lose Control" topped charts worldwide, earning him Grammy nods and massive streams.

His genre-blending style—soul roots mixed with pop, hip-hop, country, and rock—stems directly from those early influences and experiments. Now a global star, Teddy's authenticity and vulnerability resonate deeply.

Catch Teddy Swims Live in 2026

With his meteoric rise continuing, Teddy Swims' 2026 tour promises unforgettable performances blending soulful classics and new tracks. Whether you're in Raleigh, Charlotte, or beyond, grab tickets early—demand is high for this rising icon.

Head to CapitalCityTickets.com for competitive pricing, no-fee options on select inventory, and easy access to Teddy Swims concert tickets across his upcoming dates. Don't miss seeing the artist who turned YouTube covers into a chart-dominating career! For updates and more, visit CapitalCityTickets.com.