Chet O'Connell

John R Campbell Collection

Chet O'Connell

Chet O'Connell was born in Whangarei, and his career began at an extremely early age with his Dad's band.  He has played in groups such as Fuse (Chet and Melissa), The Class Of '58, and supported Midge Marsden, Hammond Gamble, Highway Of Legends, Dr John, Joe Cocker and Cher.  Chet has earned a formidable reputation as one of New Zealand's most dynamic, in-demand guitarists at the same time as receiving accolades as a fine vocalist and entertainer in his own right.  His vast musical ability and knowledge has enabled him to move freely around the music scene, working with a variety of artists in many different genres.  It's that ease and dexterity that sees Chet in constant demand on the touring circuit and in the studio.  The professionalism, passion and energy he brings to his music make him the first point of call for a number of top entertainers in New Zealand and on the international stage.  Besides all his work with others, Chet O'Connell has released four albums of his own.

Whether Chet is working live as a guitarist, a vocalist or playing sessions, he is constantly busy doing what he loves - playing music.  Chet's musical journey began at the tender age of 4, and by 12 he was in a band.  In the years that followed Chet began to develop his skills as a guitarist and vocalist working first in his father's band (which included two years of playing drums) and then touring with a cabaret style show, performing all the instrumental guitar hits from the 50's and 60's.  Chet continued to work with his own band, as well as various others in his home town of Whangarei until 1997 when he decided to move to Auckland to pursue a professional career in the entertainment industry.  The move to Auckland certainly paid off with Chet making his way into the music scene and having the chance to work with many of New Zealand's top entertainers.  Chet is constantly in demand for live and studio work and loves the variety of music he gets to perform.

It is difficult to categorize Chet into one particular style of music, as he is a versatile performer and his extensive repertoire sees him performing music ranging from middle of the road and country, through to rock and blues.  His vast musical ability has enabled him to move around the music scene with ease.  Chet has been a part of some of New Zealands's biggest concerts including Christmas in the Park, Lakeside in Rotorua and the Queenstown Winter Festival.  He has performed extensively throughout New Zealand as well as performing on the international scene, where he has been lucky enough to share the stage with guitar legend Tommy Emmanuel, and be involved with opening for artists such as Dr John, Joe Cocker and Cher.  Chet has recently completed sell-out tours of New Zealand with the Class of '58, Midge Marsden, Hammond Gamble, and The Highway Of Legends, and he is a dynamic performer whether it be with his own band or as a soloist.  A first class crowd pleaser and outstanding musician, it is Chet's dedication that has made his achievements possible.

Additional Chet O'Connell information is available on the Chet O'Connell official website .....

www.chetoconnell.co.nz