Artist Spotlight: Catch the Current, Swimming Paul’s Momentum Can’t Be Missed

There’s a certain magic to artists who seem to come out of nowhere, yet somehow feel like they’ve been part of your playlists forever. French-born, London-based producer Swimming Paul is one of them. Blending emotionally rich lyrics with club-ready soundscapes, his music is infectious in that low-key, “wait- who is this?” kind of way. And if you haven’t stumbled across him yet, it’s probably just a matter of time.

Swimming Paul has been quietly building momentum since his 2022 debut EP, which drew early praise for its polished production and introspective songwriting. But 2024 marked a turning point. His debut album Smiling Through the Pain stitched together over a year’s worth of monthly singles with five new tracks, creating an hour-long journey that flows with intentional emotional build. The album’s name isn’t just a clever title, it’s a quiet thesis for an artist who’s been candid about battling burnout, anxiety, and the mental toll of a fast-moving career.

But you’d never guess that from the music. Songs like “Different Time” shimmer with 2000s house nostalgia and modern dance-floor warmth: driving, wistful, and euphoric all at once. His lyrics look back on freedom and memory, but his production always points forward. And if you’re thinking, this sounds like Fred again.. territory, you’re not alone. Some fans on Reddit have even speculated that Swimming Paul might be a Fred alias. (He’s not, but that should tell you something.)

He’s also got the cosigns. His Tiësto collab “VHS Rave” added a big-room shine to his growing catalog, helping solidify him as more than just a niche favorite. Touching down in Denver, San Francisco, LA, and Chicago this past March, these quick stops sparked word-of-mouth buzz leaving certain cities still waiting for their turn.

Swimming Paul isn’t just one to watch: he’s one to book. Whether it’s a headlining set at Walter Where?House or an emotional rollercoaster at The Van Buren, Arizona deserves to be part of this rising star’s journey. And trust me: once you hear one track, you’re in it for the long swim.

Connect with Swimming Paul: Facebook | Instagram | Spotify |  SoundCloud