Teddy Swims Shines at NRL Grand Final with Dynamic AC/DC Performance

A Soulful Performance at the NRL Grand Final

Teddy Swims electrified Accor Stadium with his soulful sound during the pre-show for the 2025 NRL Grand Final on Sunday night. He paid homage to the legendary Aussie band AC/DC, captivating a crowd of 80,000 enthusiastic fans with his powerful presence.

Masterful Vocals and Fan Engagement

The Georgia-born artist kicked off the performance with his breakout hit “Bad Dreams,” smoothly transitioning into “The Door.” Any concerns about his vocal prowess vanished quickly; his rich, powerful voice filled the stadium, showcasing no signs of the vocal troubles that had previously forced him to cancel shows in Hawaii just a week earlier.

A Tribute to AC/DC

The highlight came when he launched into AC/DC’s iconic “T.N.T.,” transforming the stadium into a vibrant sing-along affair. Just two days prior, he had hinted at this tribute on Today, expressing his admiration for AC/DC as one of his all-time favorite bands and promising an unforgettable rendition.

Closing with a Bang

Swims concluded his set with the hit “Lose Control,” the anthem that catapulted him to international fame. This performance capped off a turbulent week for the 33-year-old artist. After having lost his voice mid-performance in Honolulu, he turned to Instagram to address his fans, explaining that his doctor had advised him to rest.

Determination and Comeback

The NRL dismissed any rumors of Swims withdrawing from his scheduled performance, with the artist himself stating he was determined to bring the house down. He revealed to Today that he would rest as needed, stating, “I’m back to normal now; there is no way I wasn’t coming,” mentioning his travel to Australia alongside his partner Raiche Wright and their young son.

Music that Resonates

The NRL’s choice of Swims was met with enthusiasm, as they noted his ability to resonate with diverse audiences. His unique blend of soul, country, and pop made him a fitting selection for this massive event in Australian sports.

Praise from Fans

Fans took to social media to celebrate the performance, many claiming it was one of the best pre-shows in recent years, with some even saying it outshone Snoop Dogg’s recent show at the AFL Grand Final.

Artist on the Rise

Real name Jaten Dimsdale, Teddy Swims is a Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum artist whose debut album, I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy (Part 1), illustrates his journey from viral YouTube sensations to global music stardom.

Future Endeavors

Swims will continue his journey in Australia, with upcoming headline shows across Australia and New Zealand starting at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena on October 14th. He is also set to appear as a keynote speaker at SXSW Sydney 2025.

The Game’s Exciting Conclusion

As for the game itself, the Brisbane Broncos triumphed over the Melbourne Storm with a close score of 26-22, capping off an extraordinary event.