Brian O'Neal
Born in Detroit, Michigan, Brian O’Neal first discovered his love for music at the tender age of six, when he began taking drum lessons. Although Brian (known to his friends as “Bean”) learned to play many instruments including saxophone, bass, and trombone, he aspired to be a professional drummer until his sophomore year in high school, when his grandmother “Daisy” purchased his first piano at age sixteen. Brian’s excitement for piano developed from experimenting with melodies and chords. His skills matured, developing him into a self-taught Pianist. He received a full piano/music scholarship to Alcorn State University in 1984.
During the mid-eighties, Brian began experimenting with jingles. His love for movies and children inspired him to write film scores and music for youthful audiences. While writing jingles for companies such as McDonalds Corporation, Brian was also in demand to tour with several bands. He’s been a member of two Rock bands, four Top-40 bands, and currently a Contemporary Jazz band music director. Brian has also shared the stage with artists such as Will Downing, Morris Day and the Time, India.Arie, Fantasia, Angela Bofill, Monica, Me’Shell Ndegeocello, Magic Johnson, Rachelle Ferrell, The Isley Brothers, Frankie Beverly and Maze, Alex Bugnon, George Duke Pieces of a Dream, Ruben Studdard, Chaka Kahn, Stevie Wonder, Najee, and Jeff Lorber.
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July 05, 2013
Jazz Musician of the Day: Brian O'Neal
July 05, 2012
Jazz Musician of the Day: Brian O'Neal
January 14, 2010
Homelessness: Detroit Jazz Musician Brian O'Neal Tries It
July 05, 2009
Daisy pays tribute to O’Neal’s late grandmother Daisy O’Neal who both influenced and nurtured his musical endeavors. It expresses a multi-faceted array of compilations, polished flavor and much more