Live Report: Teddy Swims brings the heat to 3Arena

Teddy Swims delivered an electrifying performance on Wednesday, selling out 3Arena to a sea of roaring fans.

Kicking off the night with Irish singer-songwriter Cian Ducrot, the crowd instantly began singing along. The Grammy-award winning artist wore a glitzy black suit and tiny orange sunglasses. His powerful voice filled the auditorium, oozing with a clear passion for music.

“Good evening Dublin!” Ducrot said. “It is such a pleasure to be back home here in Ireland, thank you so much for coming out. If you know this next song, please sing along.”

He began performing the piano ballad ‘All For You,’ speaking to the pain of a lost relationship. The artist urged fans to scan the large QR code on screen, promising to send them a live recording of ‘What About Love?’ after the show. Strutting across stage, Ducrot's confidence was palpable, priming the audience ahead of his first headliner at the venue in December. Falling to his knees and singing his heart out, the performer excited fans for the main act.

Cian Ducrot Supporting Teddy Swims @ 3 Arena 12-03-25. Copyright Peter OHanlon/ hotpress.com

The stage was shrowded by a large black veil as booming drums shook the venue. Lights flashed the crowd as the veil dropped, revealing Swims and his live band Freak Freely. The artist donned a dramatic all-red outfit, wearing sunglasses and a long coat adorned with black patches.

The Georgia-raised artist opened with the track ‘Not Your Man’ off his 2025 album I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 2). His voice rode over the bassline with ease, possessing that powerful, soulful quality he’s become known for. Sparks flew from the stage, erupting with fury and splendour.

“This next song’s about drinking, and I know y’all like to do that,” Swims said.

The artist began his 2024 track ‘Apple Juice,’ kicking off with melodic keys. Swaggering around stage, Swims delivered vocal runs like they were nothing. His background singers added a passionate, layered effect to each new song, making it easy to lose yourself in the music.

Known for his eclectic wardrobe, Swims frequently changed outfits, swapping from red, to white, to all-black. It mirrored his dynamic and ever-changing set, filled with exciting theatrics. Flames lit up the stage, warming my skin all the way from the upper-level. Hotter still was the killer guitar solo during his 2024 song ‘Funeral,’ with red and yellow lights flashing the crowd.

Teddy Swims @ 3 Arena 12-03-25. Copyright Peter OHanlon/ hotpress.com

“In the beginning of this, when I first put out the first album I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 1), I was really in a bad place emotionally, physically, spiritually, mentally,” confessed Swims. “I was coming at a real place of turmoil and heartbreak. I felt there was no way out. So much thanks to you guys for fucking changing my life and saving my life.”

“I want to tell you on the way of writing the part two of the record, I tried therapy,” he added. “That’s been awesome.”

Swims thanked his partner in the audience, dedicating the next track ‘If You Ever Change Your Mind’ to her. Raw and heartfelt, the love song filled the venue with a sense of undeniable passion. He frequently paused to interact with the audience, signing a hat, poster and t-shirt.

“So, I got a surprise for you guys,” he said. “I haven’t done this yet on this show. I thought it would be cool, and you’ll find out why we’re doing this in a second.”

Swims began performing a cover of ‘I Can’t Make You Love Me’ by Bonnie Raitt. Roughly halfway through the ballad, the artist introduced Ducrot back on stage to accompany him. Their rich vocals paired beautifully together, energising fans.

Swims’ set continued to stun the audience, providing consistently high energy. Disappearing backstage, the singer returned for a final encore.

“Dublin, thank you so much! We have just a couple more for you!” he exclaimed. Red confetti erupted over the crowd, with many lurching to grab a souvenir. Swims ended the night with his track ‘The Door’ off his 2023 album I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 1).

An absolute powerhouse, Swims filled 3Arena with an explosion of spirit and liveliness.