Tedadore’s Post-Love Pop

By Laura Gerhäusser

Listen to Mal on Spotify. Tedadore · Song · 2020.

Tedadore’s Mal is battling the post-breakup awkwardness.

Ted Hartog is a man of many musical talents. 

The Nashville-based musician started out playing in a band, performing pop-rock songs. Then, after writing some songs with a different stylistic approach, he is now enjoying the freedom of self-releasing music in his own right, under the name “Tedadore.” 

Together with his friend Wes, who is a producer, he is now working on a collection of songs that each gathers a unique, refreshing cocktail of soul-baring honesty a la Leif Vollebekk, alongside upbeat drums and surprising synth sounds. 

On August 21st, Tedadore released his second song, “Mal.” It deals with the continuing struggles one faces after a breakup. As Ted says in the track, “Familiarity is replaced by an awkward desire for normalcy.” When dealing with this person, what is appropriate? How can you avoid making it awkward? He masterly packs this complex topic into this relatable pop song that makes you dance while reminiscing. 

Here are more lines from the track:

“But it all makes me wish that you were still here

I’m holding your seat, cause maybe you’ll be right back

I don’t know if I’m awake, but baby you think I’m waking 

Taking the weight of the waiting 

Taking a break without breaking”


Later this year, we can expect a bag full of new songs by Tedadore, as he is constantly working on new music. For now, you can listen to “Mal” on all streaming platforms, and check out the track’s music video below.

Also, make sure to keep up with Tedadore via his socials, listed below.

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