For many National Rugby League (NRL) fans, Teddy Swims might have been as unfamiliar as a suburban touch judge until last weekend. The soulful American singer-songwriter, known for his extensive tattoos, became the talk of the league world after cancelling two performances in Hawaii due to illness. This led to a “will he, won’t he make it” drama, leaving fans wondering if he would recover in time for the NRL Grand Final or if a last-minute replacement would be necessary.
Despite the uncertainty, Swims, whose real name is Jaten Dimsdale, is no stranger to global recognition. His 2023 hit “Lose Control” has amassed over two billion streams on Spotify, and he boasts nearly nine million Instagram followers. Additionally, he was nominated for Best New Artist at the Grammys this year. However, performing at the NRL Grand Final meant stepping into the shoes of past star acts such as Cold Chisel, Hoodoo Gurus, and Tina Turner, making it a challenging feat.
Teddy Swims Takes the Stage
Swims made a striking entrance at the NRL Grand Final, donning a leopard skin print coat that could have been mistaken for a kilt, adorned with more rings than rugby star Nathan Cleary. He opened his set with “Bad Dreams,” showcasing a smooth, gritty voice that showed no signs of his recent illness. The performance quickly transitioned into another of his soulful tracks, “The Door.”
The highlight of Swims’ performance was a surprise cover from one of his favorite Australian bands. Stripping down to what appeared to be either a cut-down plaid suit or rocking pyjamas, he delivered a powerful rendition of AC/DC’s “TNT,” possibly as a nod to Angus Young. Seven minutes into his set, Swims performed his hit “Lose Control” in full, captivating the audience with lyrics like,
“Something’s got a hold of me lately/ No, I don’t know myself any more/Feels like the walls are all closing in/And the devil’s knocking at my door.”
Audience Reaction and Performance Impact
While it was challenging to gauge the reaction of the 80,000 fans at Accor Stadium, Swims’ performance was well-received on television. His fashion was described as likeably eccentric, his voice impressively rich and strong, and his stage presence, though lacking the marching band pizzazz of Snoop Dogg at the AFL Grand Final, was gutsy and surprisingly rocky.
Swims, who is beginning an Australian-New Zealand tour, seemed to have won over league fans. His performance raises the ongoing debate about hiring international artists for major Australian sporting events. While there is a strong argument for showcasing Australian talent to reflect the culture and tap into established fan bases, Swims proved to be a savvy choice, bringing a fresh and international flair to the event.
Looking Ahead
The success of Teddy Swims at the NRL Grand Final could pave the way for more diverse line-ups in the future, blending international and local artists. As the NRL continues to grow its global audience, such performances might become a staple, offering a platform for artists worldwide to connect with Australian audiences.
As Swims embarks on his tour, the impact of his NRL performance will likely resonate with fans, both old and new. This development follows a trend of integrating international acts into national events, reflecting a broader cultural exchange and appreciation in the world of sports entertainment.
