Head Turner by Robert O'Connor
“Head Turner” marks a defining moment in Robert O’Connor’s catalogue — the point where his sound fully collided with nocturnal disco, sleek electronic pop, and the cinematic sophistication that would shape 'Swimming Against The Tide'.
Originally written in 2012 as a slow, soulful ballad for the 'Resistance' EP, the song was passed over twice — first in 2012, and again in 2021 during sessions for 'Severance'. It wasn’t until O’Connor reimagined it with a neon-lit, after-hours direction inspired by Jessie Ware, The Weeknd, and Jamiroquai that the song came into its own.
The final production — crafted with Gareth Shortland — blends strutting basslines, shimmering synth work, and a confident, velvet-toned vocal. It became the lead single for 'Swimming Against The Tide', setting the aesthetic blueprint for the entire era.
This Bandcamp edition brings together all versions of the track — the main single mix, the elegant chillout rework, the extended nightclub-ready version, and instrumentals — offering a complete 360° view of one of O’Connor’s most important reinventions.
Tracklist
| 1. | Head Turner | 3:26 |
| 2. | Head Turner (Chillout Version) | 3:26 |
| 3. | Head Turner (Extended Mix) | 5:21 |
| 4. | Head Turner (Instrumental) | 3:26 |
| 5. | Head Turner (Chillout Instrumental) | 3:26 |
| 6. | Head Turner (Extended Instrumental) | 5:22 |
Credits
Written by:
Robert O’Connor & Gareth Shortland
Produced by:
Tracks 1 & 4 — Gareth Shortland
Track 2 & 5 — Jordan Arteaga
Track 3 & 6 — Gareth Shortland, Robert O’Connor & Jordan Arteaga
Mastered by:
Sage Audio
License
All rights reserved.Tags
Recommendations
Irish singer/songwriter Robert O’Connor blends ’80s synth-pop with modern electronic sounds. His 2024 album 'Swimming Against The Tide' earned praise for catchy melodies and sleek production. Known for introspective lyrics and lush arrangements, he also released 'Night Tides: The Chillout Collection', showcasing his passion for chillout music and creative versatility.