Jon Stojan
“Greg O’Connor at his home studio in Los Angeles, CA” Photographed by Kevin Sikorski
The music industry thrives on reinvention. While some creators chase fleeting trends, others, like Greg O’Connor, prefer authenticity. Known for composing scores across 30-plus television series and writing over 1,000 songs for TV, films, and commercials, he has ventured into uncharted territory by releasing his first solo album.
This leap from Emmy-winning composer to introspective artist represents more than a genre shift. He’s showcasing his relentless curiosity and belief in the power of music.
Finding Your Voice in a Crowded Industry
The entertainment world is a double-edged sword. It offers immense creative possibilities while demanding constant output. For composers like O’Connor, the pressure to meet tight deadlines often overshadows personal artistic pursuits. “I’ve spent years creating music tailored to others’ visions,” O’Connor shares, “but I always avoided the question of creating something just for me. Fear played a big role—what if it wasn’t good enough?”
Performance anxiety and imposter syndrome add to the mix and even haunt seasoned professionals. These challenges force creatives to stay in their comfort zones or take the bold step of redefining themselves. O’Connor chose the latter by creating his solo album, The Place I’ve Never Been.
A Career in Constant Motion
O’Connor’s career spans an impressive spectrum of genres and mediums. He’s the creative mind behind the viral “Laura Dern” song for the 2020 Film Independent Spirit Awards and the score of Universal Pictures’ animated Bobbleheads the Movie. From theme songs for Disney+’s Prop Culture to musical direction on Mad TV, O’Connor’s versatility has cemented him as a powerhouse in the industry.
However, despite accolades, including a prime-time Emmy and four nominations, O’Connor remains grounded. “There are no big breaks,” he notes. “Only tiny victories stitched together over time. Those become your career.”
An Album of Personal Reflection
O’Connor’s new solo album, The Place I’ve Never Been, reflects a shift from crafting music for scripts to expressing his own narrative. “There’s a huge difference between acting out someone else’s story and performing something personal,” he explains. This evolution also showcases his growth as a performer. He honed his skills after years of stepping in to sing on last-minute projects.
The album is an intimate exploration, unfiltered and deeply resonant. “It’s about telling real-life experiences through music that connects emotionally,” he says.
Overcoming the Illusion of Success
O’Connor is passionate about breaking down the illusion surrounding creative success. “Most artists wrestle with doubts,” he acknowledges. His advice? Focus on authenticity and curiosity. “Write what you love, absorb everything, and don’t chase someone else’s path. Success is zig-zagged, not linear.”
This mindset is actionable. By setting daily goals and cultivating open collaboration, O’Connor finds balance amid the chaos of the entertainment industry.
What’s Next on the Horizon?
O’Connor has expectations of a bi-coastal career that involves scoring projects that resonate emotionally while continuing his journey as a solo artist. “We’re living in a multicultural world, where everyone influences everyone. I want to keep challenging myself,” he says, citing inspiration from Quincy Jones’ groundbreaking career.
Greg O’Connor’s artistic journey is a reminder that creativity isn’t static. Whether composing for award-winning shows or baring his soul in song, his work highlights the universal power of music to connect people. You can learn more about Greg O’Connor by visiting his website, listening to his album, following him on Instagram, or watching his YouTube channel.