The 30-year-old Georgia-born songwriter and performer Teddy Swims has amassed a large fan base—indeed, millions of followers—thanks to his soulful songs that blend genres, from R&B to country and more. On Friday (September 15), Swims released his debut studio album, I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 1).
Videos by American Songwriter
Below, we wanted to ask Swims 13 of his “favorite” things to get a better sense of his music tastes, what he does and eats on the road, and what he loves most about the art form he’s dedicated his life to.
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So, without further ado, let’s dive into the questions.
American Songwriter: What is your favorite song you’ve written?
Teddy Swims: The best song I’ve ever been a part of is the first track on my album, “Some Things I’ll Never Know.”
AS: What is your favorite song by someone else?
TS: Such a hard question to answer, but I think maybe the best song ever written is “I Can’t Make You Love Me,” the countless versions of this song are incredible because it’s a perfect song.
AS: What is your favorite holiday song?
TS: “This Christmas” by Donny Hathaway.
AS: Who is your favorite artist?
TS: Frank Ocean is probably my number one. He’s without a doubt one of the best writers ever.
AS: What is your favorite album?
TS: Songs in the Key of Life by Stevie Wonder is the best album, top to bottom, of all time.
AS: What is your favorite venue you’ve played?
TS: That’s such a hard question—my favorite venue while we were just out in Australia was the Forum in Melbourne.
AS: What is your favorite collaboration you’ve been part of?
TS: I’d have to say anytime I’ve worked with Allen Stone has been the most amazing experience of my life. He’s one of my biggest heroes and best friends in the world—such a mentor and the best singer of all time probably.
AS: What is your favorite nursery rhyme?
TS: My favorite nursery rhyme is “Humpty Dumpty.”
AS: What is your favorite food on the road?
TS: Moe’s Southwest Grill—the happiest place on Earth.
AS: What is your favorite thing on your rider?
TS: We have Smucker’s Uncrustables—a childhood staple that followed me into adulthood.
AS: What is your favorite musical decade?
TS: I may have to say the ’60s or the ’90s!
AS: What is your favorite song lyric?
TS: “When your skies are grey, I will give you blue” — Allen Stone
AS: What is your favorite thing about music?
TS: I sincerely believe that there is a certain set of words said at a particular time in a particular way that can fix every situation we are going through in this world now and forever. Music is the greatest communicator. That’s why I started doing it.
Photo by Aaron Marsh / Courtesy Warner Records
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