Track of the Day: Teddy Swims “Broke” (2020)

Atlanta’s Teddy Swims dropped latest track “Broke” a few days ago, and we’re excited to be naming it as today’s Track of the Day.

Otherwise known as Jaten Dimsdale, the surname ‘Swims’ is actually an anagram, standing for Someone Who Isn’t Me Sometimes, a reference to the struggles the Atlanta artist had fitting in throughout his life.

Building a following with a series of blistering covers (we’re particularly partial to his versions of “Blinding Lights“, “Someone You Loved” and “You’re Still The One“- Shania Twain approved!), Swims signed to Warner back in January. Since then, he’s released original tracks in the form of “Picky” and, of course, “Broke”.

Of “Broke”, he says:

“The song, as carefree as it may sound, comes from an honest place. I was so used to being broke my whole life that it is hard to believe I’m not hurting for money anymore. My brother and best friends now have full time salaries through the TeddySwims [project]. I was able to buy my dad a new truck. Earlier this year, when the whole team drove across the country to Los Angeles, we weren’t staying in motels and on couches anymore— we had an Airbnb in the Hollywood Hills. It is because of the friends and family who’ve supported my vision that this is happening. This song, which was written right before the pandemic hit, captures the journey that I’ve gone through over the last year.”

Give it a listen (and check out the fantastic video) below!

Stay up to date with all things Teddy Swims via his website, YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

Jodie Sloan

Living, writing, and reading in Brisbane/Meanjin. Likes spooky books, strong cocktails, and pro-wrestling.