Teddy Swims took the stage at Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena, delivering a night of raw emotion, staggering vocals, and undeniable charisma that left the sold-out crowd buzzing. Fresh off his “I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy” tour, the Atlanta-born singer-songwriter transformed the state-of-the-art venue into a soulful sanctuary, proving why he’s one of music’s most electrifying rising stars.
Kicking off the evening, Cian Ducrot brought his signature blend of heartfelt lyrics and soaring melodies to the arena. Known for hits like “All For You” and “I’ll Be Waiting,” the Cork native showcased his emotive vocal prowess and knack for storytelling. Opening with the tender “Heaven,” Ducrot’s voice—warm yet piercing—cut through the vast space, drawing the audience into his world of love, loss, and resilience. Accompanied by minimal instrumentation, often just a piano or guitar, his stripped-back performance felt intimate despite the grand setting. Tracks like “Part of Me,” a tribute to a lost friend, resonated deeply, with the crowd swaying in quiet reverence, phone torches lighting up the arena like stars.
Ducrot’s stage presence was unassuming yet magnetic, his easy charm shining through as he shared snippets of his journey between songs. His cover of “Hallelujah” brought a festive twist, hinting at his versatility, while his original material showcased a polished pop sensibility grounded in raw emotion. Though his set was brief, it was the perfect appetizer—leaving the audience warmed up and eager for more, while proving he’s a rising star worth watching.
From the moment Swims stepped into the spotlight, backed by his dynamic house band Freak Freely, the energy was palpable. Opening with the simmering intensity of “Bad Dreams,” he set the tone for an evening that balanced heart-wrenching ballads with infectious, foot-stomping anthems. His voice—a rich, gravelly instrument that effortlessly spans octaves—filled every corner of the arena, its resonance amplified by Co-op Live’s renowned acoustics. Fans were immediately hooked, swaying and singing along as if the songs were old friends.
The night’s centerpiece was undoubtedly “Lose Control,” his 2023 breakout hit that soared to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. As the opening chords rang out, the crowd erupted, and Swims delivered a rendition so powerful it felt like a communal catharsis. His ability to blend R&B, soul, and pop into a sound uniquely his own shone through, with each note dripping with vulnerability and strength. The performance was a testament to his journey from YouTube covers to global stardom, and the audience hung on every word.
Swims didn’t shy away from variety, weaving in tracks like “The Door” and a soul-stirring cover of Rihanna’s “Stay,” showcasing his versatility and emotional depth. His rapport with Freak Freely added a layer of spontaneity—playful riffs and improvised jams kept the set lively, while his warm banter with the crowd made the massive venue feel intimate. “Manchester, you’re making me feel alive tonight!” he roared, met with deafening cheers.
The production matched his larger-than-life presence, with a dazzling light show and animated visuals, including playful teddy bears dancing across the screens. Yet, it was Teddy Swims’ voice—unpolished, authentic, and downright exquisite—that stole the show. By the time he closed with an encore of “Bed on Fire,” the audience was left in awe, buzzing with the kind of high only a truly great live performance can deliver. Teddy Swims didn’t just play Co-op Live—he owned it.
Photo Copyright © Gary Mather
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